c.1931 Marx, Mechanical "Merry Makers" Mouse Band with Marquee
THE Classic Marx tin litho "Merry Makers" clockwork Mouse Band in excellent to excellent+ condition and works great! Probably one of the best toys ever made it features a 4-piece band lithoed only in white, red, and black. Rarest version which includes original piano marquee and violinist. Originally selling for 98¢ the foursome play an upright piano, a second dances, a third bangs a drum, while the fourth "saws" away on the violin while sitting on top of the piano. The group wear formal tuxedos complete with white button shirts, red vests, white gloves and spats (button-down shoes). Lithoed on the piano are wide-eyed mice running across the piano keys, while cat faces decorate the chairs. The back of the piano has the Marx name, trademark, patent numbers and toy name in block lettering. Note that the name "MerryMakers" is split into two words 'merry' and 'makers' on the marquee. The original box (which is not present) also splits it into two words. It winds using an attached key and has a stop/start lever on the right side of the piano. Each mouse sways side to side and up and down simultaneously. These complex actions combined with the elegantly lithographed cartoon mice account for its appeal longevity. The assembled toy is shown in the 3rd and 2nd photos from the bottom (The rascally rodents were posed for the other photos). Size: Approx. 10" x 9" x 5" assembled. Sold: Apr. 2013
Price Sold: $ 950
