1940 Marx, Flipo The Jumping Dog In Original Box
Classic tin litho somersaulting 'Flipo -The Jumping Dog' complete with original box and instruction sheet. He grades a strong excellent++. Flipo was produced in at least two versions over its 10 year history. This example was the intermediate "model" manufactured shortly after its original market introduction. Historically, early and intermediate versions of this toy can be identified in several ways. The black and white lithography was used early on. After a short time brown coloration was added to the fur. Early versions also spelled the name of the toy with a single "P". After 1940 the name was altered to include a double "P" as Flippo. This version was lithoed without a Marx logo. However the simplest way to identify it as an intermediate version is the key. Flipo #1 was wound using a separate key. Flipo #2 (this example) has a permanently connected key. The box also helps to date the toy. The first, such as the one below, was printed in color. It shows a young knickered lad with tie smiling as Flipo does his thing. "Watch Me Jump", plus the toy name, manufacturer name and address were printed on the side panels and endflaps. Later versions of the box were printed in black and white and had only simple drawings of the toy. It's also the first complete intact set of instructions I've found for this toy. Although I did find a cracked, torn sheet several years ago. Flipo's sudden flipping movement was used for other Marx/Linemar toys like Dumbo and Popeye. It uses a pressure-wound metal ribbon to push him strongly up and backwards. Frequently he'll land in an upright position, but more often than not the head, sides, or tail will make first contact. For this reason the toy is often found with scratches, scuffs, and dents after only a few uses. The toy in this auction works beautifully and shows very little signs of use. Size: 4" tall Sold: Jan. 2011
Price Sold: $ 255
