c.1958 Asahi, Super Atom Train in Original Box
Outstanding tin litho friction drive "Super Atom Train with Piston Action" manufactured by Asahi Toy. It's in near mint condition and comes complete with original box. Purchased from the estate of the original owner who never removed it from the box. Double ended diesel style locomotive loaded with intricate details, both movable and stationary (lithoed). Features polished railings, safety gates, movable overhead polished tin headlights, four side ladders and lithoed under carriages. Tires are all spoke rubber (four are friction driven, four spin freely). In the center on each side of the train are three brass plated "pistons". They move in opposite directions with the two end pistons moving one way, while the center one moves opposite to them. Two piece box features a panel wide color illustration of the Super Atom Train with passenger car in tow. A very strange, Japanese interpreted engineer is shown off to the right with a lighthouse and ocean behind him. For me, this only adds to the wonderful antique appearance of the toy. The name "Atom Train" appears only the box. The train was lithoed with the name "Mountain Express". Most likely the name was changed to capitalize on the emerging fascination with science and space. Size: 11". Sold: Jun. 2008
Price Sold: $ 91
