October 2009 (4)
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/9/2009
Tin. Working. Lithographed tin wind-up with cast iron feet. A photo engraving of Chaplin in his Tramp silent era comedy outfit appears on the box cover above his signature. Below signature it is marked Exclusive Licensee B & R. Other Chaplin toys of this era that are marked Exclusive Licensee were produced for distribution by the Geo. Borgfeldt Co. B & R was a toy company in New Jersey that eventually was absorbed into or became Unique Art. Toy has a very realistic Chaplin face. Estimated date of production is 1914 to 1915 which makes this toy the first American made tin wind-up licensed character toy. Toy is in exceptionally fine condition and this is best known example of a very rare box. Box is crisp and complete with some brown staining on the cover. Provenance: Collection of Carl Lobel.
Condition: (Near Mint).
Item Dimensions: 8 - 1/2" T.