c.1950 Marx Rex Mars Space Target Game In Original Box
"Rex Mars" was the licensed name which the Marx Company copyrighted to compete with the growing popularity of space hero's and science fiction monsters. From my research I found that the Rex Mar's Space Target Game was the first toy which used the Rex Mars name. This may account for the misspelling of the name as Mar's, rather than Mars, on the box. It may also be the reason for its scarcity (I've seen only three other examples including one from the Sotheby's, Griffith Robot collection). This example is in unused near mint condition complete with targets, tin litho stand, space rifle, and seven golden wooden bullets in their original bag. It also comes with its original box which is very difficult to find. It's a simple, yet unusual looking toy. Five different plastic space critters, each a different color, hang loosely from a metal rod attached to a tin litho base. Point values are noted below each figure. Load the rifle, one shell at a time, fire when ready, and note those that spin and their total. In 1950 it probably wasn't at the top of most Christmas lists, but today it's weirdness is what makes it so attractive. It was available for only one year. The plastic targets include two aliens, a robot, and two very bad looking space guys. The litho base shows a space port with ships and spires in the background. The rifle is also plastic, with a die cast metal trigger and guard. It's complete with seven original gold painted wooden bullets. The all-text box includes the name of the toy, manufacturer name, address, trademark, and logo. Size: 13½" x 5½" Date Sold: Sept. 2009
Price Sold: $ 565
