1953 Marx, Rex Mars Sparkling Space Tank in Original Box
Superb clockwork tin litho dough boy style tank from Marx in near mint condition complete with original box and key. Features pop-up helmeted gunner with space rifle. The hatch raises periodically, the gunner is raised above the opening, aims, and then suddenly retreats back into the tank. The hatch cover automatically closes after him. Tank turret throws sparks as it moves forward while making a grinding sound. Beautifully lithographed in a matte finish of light blue, dark blue, red, white, and bronze. Lithoed on the sides are rockets, ray guns, exhaust pipe trailing brown smoke, and tank wheels. The pilot and co-pilot are lithoed in front just below the turret, while the tail shows a series of exhausts trailing plumes of white smoke. Underside lithoed with repetitive tank treads and the Marx logo. The toy moves using its two main wooden wheels, but steers randomly using its pivoting front rubber tire. It sparks continuously as it moves and includes its original flint holder and new flint. Awesome box printed in a similar matte type finish. Main panels show a side view of the tank with the gunner and helmeted infantryman on a planet surface. Opposite panels show a three quarters perspective of the tank from the front. More of the planet surface is shown in the background. Also includes correct inner flap showing a schematic illustration with instructions for replacing the flint. An "important" note was also added which indicated how to avoid breaking the hatch cover. It also comes with its original and correct Marx die cast key. The key is separate and usually lost. The toy works beautifully. A few key winds, flip the start/stop lever to start (located on the top front corner edge) and off it goes! Size: 10" x 4" x 5". Sold: May 2008
Price Sold: $ 430
