1946 Unique Art Mfg Co., Lil' Abner Band In Original Box
Superb example of "the first post-war wind-up metal toy", Unique Art Mfg. Co., Li'l Abner And His Dogpatch Band in (conservatively graded) excellent+ to near mint condition. Comes complete with original box with both inner endflaps containing directions and schematics. The January, 1946 issue of Playthings magazine advertised this toy as the first post-WWII metal wind-up toy. Considered a classic tin wind-up toy, most collectors are familiar the Dogpatch Band's multiple actions, it's multiple comic characters, incredible detail, and awesome lithography. It's identical in concept to at least half a dozen other American toys produced by Marx and Strauss. It's complete, all original without any repairs, and works great! The key is attached and it has a start/stop switch on the side. The color box features an Al Capp (creator of Li'l Abner") head-shot illustration along side the toy name. The Unique Art logo was printed just below. This panel was repeated on the back. The sides of the box show the main characters as the band. The top and bottom endflaps include the toy name, manufacturer name, address, and logo, plus the Unique Toy slogan and patent. The interior topside flaps were printed with an elaborate 5-step set of directions (right side) and a schematic showing toy assembly (left side). Size: 9½" x 8¼" x 5". Date Sold: Jul. 2009
Price Sold: $ 612
