Description

Step back in time with this fascinating piece of early 20th-century militaria toy history. This antique wind-up "Doughboy" battle tank features striking WWI-style camouflage lithography in muted green, rustic orange-red, and yellow. A prominent, lithographed tin soldier—resembling a classic World War I infantryman or "Doughboy" in a Brodie helmet—peeks out from the main hatch holding a rifle. This highly collectible mechanical toy beautifully captures the industrial design and cultural zeitgeist of the interwar period, making it a stellar conversation piece for any antique toy or military enthusiast.

This authentic toy was proudly manufactured by Louis Marx & Co., proudly stamped on the rear armor plate alongside their iconic "Mar Toys" circular logo, reading "Louis Marx & Co., New York, U.S.A., Patents Pending." While this specific style of lithographed mechanical tank was produced by Marx in the late 1920s to early 1930s, it pays direct homage to the famous French Renault FT and British tanks used in the Great War. This early iteration features a built-in key mechanism on the bottom and an integrated "Start/Stop" lever on the side hull, showcasing the robust American toy engineering that made Marx a household name.

In terms of sizing, this tank has a substantial presence that displays wonderfully on a shelf or in a cabinet. According to the included measurements, the toy stands approximately 4.5 inches tall at its highest point, spans roughly 3.5 inches in width across the side sponson guns, and measures just under 10 inches in total length. Crafted entirely from stamped sheet tin with lithographed detailing, the toy retains its original fixed wind-up key on the underside, dual side-mounted gun turrets, and a raised rear exhaust layout.

As shown in the photography, this item is in vintage, as-found estate condition with a heavy, honest patina that collectors love. There is significant surface rust, pitting, and paint loss across the tracks, underside, and right hull, which speaks to its nearly century-old age. The lithography on the soldier and portions of the left hull remains remarkably legible with vibrant colors. The internal clockwork mechanism and winding key are intact, though it is being sold as-isand may require a light cleaning or servicing to restore full mechanical motion. Bid now to add this rugged piece of American toy history to your vintage collection!

Condition

Please note all items are "as-is where-is"

Measurement

measures just under 10 inches in total length.

Terms and Conditions

1. All items are sold where is, as is.

2. Once payment is completed for item(s) won, the ability to schedule a pick-up time will become available. Scheduling a pick-up time is required.

3. There will be a $20 fee assessed per item not picked up at that time that will be collected prior to bidding again at our auctions. Unlike retail, we do not have the option to store your item. If the item is larger than a standard suitcase (22" x 14" x 10"), we will charge $50 to the card on file per item to move the item.

4. Please plan accordingly as items not picked up are considered "abandoned". Do not bid if you cant pick up this day.

5. You are responsible for ensuring you collect all items at pickup.

6. Legacy uses "Popcorn" or "Extended" bidding. This means if a bid comes in at the last second, it is extended 3 minutes. This is like a live auctioneer saying, "going once" to ensure all bids are exhausted prior to closing.

7. We charge a 12% flat buyers premium on all items.

8. We charge KY State Tax with the exception of vehicles which is collected at the DMV.

9. You must bring help to pickup any items. We can recommend movers upon request. Also, please bring tools for items that require disassembly.

10. Please read our complete terms and conditions for additional details.