BATTERY-OPERATED TOYS
Posted 3 years ago at 5:34 pm. 9 comments
The creation of battery-operated toys took tin toys to a new level. As a means to create a different type of toy operation beyond the traditional ‘wind-up motor’ and ‘fly wheel’, manufacturer’s sought to create a new market. As such the ‘battery-op’ toy was born. As much as 95% of these toys were made in Japan during the 1940’s – 1960’s, although some were distributed by American companies.
The Japanese designers used this new technology to create toys capable of up to 8 actions at one time. These toys were an instant success – especially in the United States – and kept Japan in the top manufacturing position for the next 30+ years. Not only was their goal to produce mass quantities but also to maintain a high level of quality with the emphasis on details.
From the stand point of being visually entertaining, nothing can compare with the battery operated toy. Remember, the more actions a toy performs, the more collectible. And while rarity is important, first and always consider condition.
Thanks !
I have a 1940-50s Alps battery operated train set–it is MIB with great graphics the title on the box reads “Electric Crossover Train Set” it has an engine, coal car (gasoline), & caboose I looking for year and approx value. Thanks Rick
Rick,
Could not find the exact box name, but did find a toy with the name Electro-Train Transcontinental made in the 1950′s (Mfg by M Co.), 3-pieces, 20-1/2″ long. Sorry no picture was available. The MIB price would be in the $175-190 range. Found this information in my O’Brien’s Collecting Toys 12th Ed. reference book. May be a good comparison. Thanks, David
Thanks David!!
i got a 1940 ford tin car that is battery op and has lights that work smokes out the radiator cap when u put oil in it and it moves forward itself. i would like to know how much it is worth.
Can you send a picture of this toy to me at texascv@gmail.com. That would better help me to identify it. Thanks, David
DGM,
I have a T.N. Co Mystery Car and one of the red lights on one of the back fenders does not blink on & off anymore, do you know where I can get a replacement 3 vt. red bulb ?
Thank you,
David
I had a Charlie Weaver Bartender and Mr. Magoo’s Car when I was a kid. Too busy to answer this, OK, but what might they go for today? I saw a Charlie the other day for $75.00.
i have a toy very similar to the Batop at the beggining of your webpage. it is a bartender that was produced in Japan and wondered the value of such a toy.
Book value for the bartender is $100 (MIB)