1937 Marx, Mechanical Sparkling Soldier in Original Box
Awesome clockwork tin litho figural soldier with sparkling rifle in supine (laying down) position. In near mint condition complete with original box and die cast metal key. The patent number and logo type accurately dates its year of manufacture. Since WWI the figural "stealthily moving soldier on his belly" was a very popular toy. It was produced in German, Japanese, English, French and American versions in tin, steel, celluloid, wood, composition, glass, and even paper. It's simple design uses an internal clockwork mechanism to slowly rotate two toothed gears which "dig in" to move the soldier along. A gear periodically stops moving which gives it a wiggle type motion. The original box is a simple text style with tuck-in end flaps. The separate key which is typically lost appears original to this toy. Size: 7¼". Sold: Nov. 2005
Price Sold: $ 355
