c.1924 German (M.D.), Nickel Silver Plated New Choral Singing Top in Original Box
Despite several excellent references about German made toys I found very little information about this New Choral Singing Top. It's a large toy measuring 8½" tall and weighs over a half a pound and is complete with its original box and pull ring. I purchased from a collector in Germany who owned it for many years. The toy is made from German nickel/silver plated onto zinc metal. It has an internal music box which plays when rotating. Sound is emitted through nine oval holes around the outermost edge and six holes at the top. It's embossed, top and bottom, and has several layered concentric rings. It has a turned oak wooden handle. Just below the handle the metal surface is knurled, not embossed. This was probably for gripping. It had its original pull ring still inside the box as well as the original packing material. The pull cord was replaced. Curiously enough it's also engraved. As shown in the first photo the second to last circular section near the bottom is marked with the following: L 1000/717 nh h/1.75 I believe that these figures identify the catalog number, diameter, and % silver (German nickel/silver) Trying to identify the manufacturer was as difficult as defining the markings. The box lid has an intricately designed color print. In addition to the name of the toy in English and German is the "Made in Germany" merchandise mark and two shields featuring the German Eagle. Two highly detailed schematics (with sleeved hands) show how to operate the toy. In the center is a large pine tree with the letters "M" and "D" positioned on either side of the trunk. They're surrounded by fancy scrollwork. The box itself is thick cardboard laminated with light blue glossy paper. The cover is separate and has very old right angle corner staples. Size: 8½" tall x 6" at its widest point. Sold: Jan. 2007
Price Sold: $ 169
