This 1940’s “Drummer Boy” brightly colored lithographed tin wind-up toy capitalizes on the popularity of marching bands, spawned from World War II and the preponderance of patriotism taking place in America at that time. The operation is simple and it works great; simply wind-up the attached key; release, and the “Drummer Boy” raises and lowers his arms alternately and articulates and simulates the sound of a beating snare drum (please see attached short video with this listing—upon request). There is also a subtle sound of a bell.
It is in excellent and all original condition with no restoration and no touch-up paint; original surface with a nice patina and minimal wear.
It was manufactured by the “Louis Marx Toy Company”, New York City as indicated by the circular logo with “MAR” in the middle located on the back of the drummer’s uniform (see image).
Dimensions: 3 1/8″ wide x 3 1/2″ deep x 9″ high
Provenance: Recently acquired from an esteemed collection of tin toys in Los Angeles
Note: After 40 plus years of dealing and collecting toys, I am justly qualified to guarantee and present the authenticity of antique and vintage toys and banks; important considering the fakes and reproductions in the marketplace