Donald Duck Convertible Appraisal

Vintage Sun Rubber Co. Donald Duck in a Red Convertible Toy Car

This is a vintage rubber toy featuring the Disney character Donald Duck driving a red open-top convertible. The item is likely manufactured by The Sun Rubber Company, a prominent producer of rubber toys during the mid-20th century, specifically dating from the late 1940s to the 1950s. The toy is constructed from molded hard rubber (sometimes referred to as slush-molded rubber) and features integrated wheels made of the same material in an off-white or cream color. The car body is painted a muted red, while Donald Duck is depicted with his signature blue sailor hat. The character is seated in the driver's position, and there is a yellow molded element in the rear seat representing passengers or luggage (likely Huey, Dewey, and Louie). The physical condition shows significant signs of age-appropriate wear; the rubber displays 'chalking' or surface oxidation, giving it a dusty, matte appearance. There are visible paint losses and abrasions, particularly on the edges of the car fenders and Donald's facial features. The white wheels show darkening and dirt accumulation from play. These toys are known for their durability but are susceptible to rubber hardening and cracking over decades. The overall craftsmanship is consistent with mass-produced mid-century American playthings, focusing on recognizable character forms and vibrant, lead-based paints typical for that era.