6 Vintage Toys with Lasting Value
In this technological age, the lasting value of vintage toys is not to be underestimated. A century’s worth of toys has been curated into a prized collection that allows bidders to indulge their nostalgia for trains, planes and automobiles. Here are 6 standouts from the auction’s collection:
Technofix Wind-Up Tin Motorcycle
Technofix windup tin motorcycle with original box, 5in x 7 1/2in x 2 3/4in. Estimate: $750-$1,000. Jasper52 image
The popularity of mid-20th century toys is reflected in a trio of dramatically different models offered in this auction. Leading the parade is this postwar tin wind-up Technofix motorcycle. The bike is marked “Made in U.S. Zone Germany,” while the hard-to-find illustrated box is marked “Made in Western Germany.” In all-original, as-found working condition, this toy is estimated at $750-$1,000.
Nosco Friction Indian Motorcycle
Nosco friction Indian motorcycle with sidecar, early plastic police cycle, 5 1/2 inches. Estimate: $750-$1,000. Jasper52 image
The Nosco Indian police motorcycle with a sidecar has friction drive that produces a siren-like sound. This early plastic toy has a rare color and an adjustable front wheel, which allows the toy to run straight or in a circle.
Globe Cast Iron Indian Motorcycle
Globe cast-iron Indian motorcycle, 1930s, 8 3/4 in long. Estimate: $1,300-$1,700. Jasper52 image
The traditional choice in motorcycle toys is the cast-iron Indian with rider from the 1930s. The all-original bike is nearly 9 inches long and rides on black rubber tires.
Horse Drawn Wooden Wagon Toy
Horse-drawn wooden coal cart, 1920s, made by S.A. Smith Brattleboro Vt., 24in long. Estimate: $750-$1,000. Jasper52 image
From the 1920s comes a horse-drawn coal wagon toy, which is stamped with the maker’s name, “S.A. Smith, Brattleboro, VT” on both the base of the horse and the wooden cart. The 24-inch long toy is all original with an old repair to the cart.
Kai Bojesen Toy Dachsund
Kai Bojesen toy dachshund, articulated, mahogany, 12 1/2in long, 1934. Estimate: $800-$1,200. Jasper52 image
Kai Bojesen, an iconic figure in Danish design, earned worldwide acclaim for his collection of wooden toys, notably his monkey and toy soldiers. In 1934 he designed a dachsund made of mahogany. The head, tail and legs of this rare 12 1/2 inch long dog all swivel. In excellent vintage condition, this highly collectible toy is expected to find a new home for $800-$1,200.
Buddy L Tank Truck
Buddy L tank truck, 1926, original condition. 26in long. Estimate: $2,000-$2,800. Jasper52 image
Perhaps saving the best for last, here we have a 1926 Budy L tanker truck in fine original condition. The early Buddy L trucks are considered the Cadillacs of “floor toys,” large in scale and built of heavy gauge steel. Manufactured in Moline, Ill., this 26-inch long model is estimated at $2,000-$2,800.
View the full collection of vintage toys including dolls, stuffed toy animals and tin windup characters.