Antique toys like this (wind ups) are difficult to find in outstanding operating condition as this one (see the video attached) because of the rough play they would have received from the children who owned them. In very good and all original condition and paint in green, white, yellow, and flesh tone; the paint and lithography has no touch up or repaint of any kind; there is zero restoration.
To operate, just turn clockwise the attached clockwork wind up key on the back of the girl and the she dances around in a circular motion for quite some time. “Dancing Katinka” is an all tin wind up toy of American manufacture; made by the Lindstrom Toy Company of Bridgeport, Connecticut in 1930; the company having been established in 1913. It is marked on the back on the bottom of her dress (see image) “Lindstrom Made in U.S.A. Patent Applied For”, indicating they produced and distributed the toy before they received the patent. Generally, if popular, the manufacturing of a toy had a multi year run; this toy was a success, so obviously, this example was an earlier version.
It is worth mentioning that it is always better to buy a toy that functions properly, rather than one that is less expensive because it is inoperable or “struggles” to get going, —you will get a lot more pleasure, rather than frustration from a poorly operating toy. The only exception would be on a very rare toy.
Dimensions: 8″ high x 3″ deep x 3″ wide
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