Linemar Marx ca. 1950’s Blue “Friction Old Jalopy” Tin Lithographed Friction Car *SOLD*

Linemar Marx ca. 1950’s Blue “Friction Old Jalopy” Tin Lithographed Friction Car 

This tin, lithographed, friction powered “Friction Old Jalopy” car was manufactured in Japan by Louis Marx & Co. of New York City, New York under their Linemar brand. 

When revved up our “Old Jalopy” moves forward and bucks up and down as the back wheel is purposefully shaped to make it have that typical old jalopy movement with its run-down appearance, and wonky wheels. The black rubber tires and spare tire are still intact, but as per usual with toys of this age they may have petrified and cracked. We did not notice any cracking on these. It is marked “Marx”, “Made in Japan” and “Louis Marx & Co. Inc.” on the bottom. It is also marked “Marx” on the radiator. 

Our example of this Linemar “Old Jalopy” is in excellent original condition with no breaks, restorations, repairs, or touch ups. This piece may show the usual patina, dust, chips, scuffs, surface rust, scratches, and wear that are to be expected from age and play. It is approximately 5” L x 2 ½” W x 2 ¾” H.  Marx is known for American tin lithographs, clean lines, and strong design work. This piece would look great in any collection. We invite you to view the photos to further determine quality and condition. 

A brief history of Louis Marx & Company/Linemar of New York City, New York: 

Louis Marx and Company was an American toy manufacturer in business from about 1919 to 1980 founded in New York City by Louis & David Marx. Its products were often imprinted with the slogan, “One of the many Marx toys, have you all of them?” Arguably, Marx was the most well-known toy companies through the late mid-20th century. Best known for their lithographed tin windup toys Marx was also one of the big four among American electric train manufacturers. An interesting fact is that Marx also successfully revived the Yo-Yo in 1928; it sold well even through the Depression. 

Linemar Co. Inc. or more simply Linemar toys was the trade name under which Marx toys were manufactured in Japan, then sold in the United States and other countries. The reason to make Linemar toys in Japan was to keep costs down. Under the Linemar name, Marx produced The Flintstones and other licensed toy vehicles (Linemar Tin Toys 2015). The Linemar line also included airplanes that were produced in the colors of KLM, Pan Am and other airlines.