I used to get them as a kid from a family friend who worked in a bank. At first it seemed really cool. They're official-looking and have large dollar amounts on them.
Then you find out how they work, and that they are really worth next to nothing in present value. Very disappointing, but a lesson in economics, I suppose.
But I actually think they push kids away from saving. 30 years may as well be 30,000 years when you are 10 years old. What's the point?
As an adult, yea, pretty lame "investment" given the anemic rate of return and predictable inflation. May as well buy spoons.
I think the sole purpose of those bonds is for kid gifts, now that I think about it
