Set of Three Vintage Tin Litho Spin Tops
This lot consists of three vintage tin litho spin tops, varying in size and design, likely originating from Japan during the mid-20th century, specifically the 1940s to 1960s, a known 'golden age' for tin toys. They are constructed from thin sheet metal (tin) that has been lithographically printed with various patterns and imagery. The largest top measures approximately 3 inches in diameter and features a vibrant yellow background with a cheerful, brown cartoon monkey depicted swinging on a branch. The monkey has large eyes, an open mouth with visible teeth, and a light blue collar. The words 'MADE IN JAPAN' are clearly visible in black print on the yellow surface. This top has a red rim at its base, showing some paint loss and wear consistent with age and use. The middle top, roughly 2 inches in diameter, exhibits a more subdued aesthetic with a cream or off-white background adorned with a repetitive, stylized floral design, possibly cherry blossoms, in shades of pink and light blue. Its top edge is a solid color, possibly light blue or grey. The smallest top, approximately 1.5 inches in diameter, has a striped pattern around its side, appearing to alternate between light green and a lighter shade, possibly white or cream. Its top surface is a solid, plain brown color, which could be painted tin or a cardboard insert. All three tops show signs of age, including potential minor dents, scratches, and color fading, although specific damages are not clearly discernible in the provided image beyond general wear and some scuffs on the largest top's red rim. The construction appears to be typical for mass-produced tin toys of the era, focusing on colorful and engaging designs.
AI-Generated Appraisal Disclaimer
Estimated Value
$40-60
Basic Information
Category
Toy
Appraised On
August 28, 2025
Estimated Value
$40-60
Additional Details Provided By Owner
User Provided Information
Based on the photo and your inferred information, her Based on the photo and your inferred information, here is a corrected and more detailed description of the items: * Item(s): Three vintage tin litho spin tops. * Markings: "Made in Japan" is clearly visible on the large yellow top. * Item Dimensions: Your inferred dimensions of 3", 2", and 1.5" for the largest, middle, and smallest tops, respectively, appear to be correct based on their relative sizes in the image. * Item Material: The main body of the spin tops is tin, a thin metal sheet coated with a design using a process called lithography. The stems or handles are likely also tin. * Location of Origin: As marked, the items were made in Japan. * Estimated Time Period: These types of tin toys were widely produced in Japan from the 1940s to the 1960s, a period often referred to as the "golden age of tin toys." * Other Details: * The largest top features a cartoon monkey holding onto a branch. * The middle top has a floral design, possibly a cherry blossom. * The smallest top has a striped pattern and a plain brown top, which may be cardboard or painted tin.
Item Description
This lot consists of three vintage tin litho spin tops, varying in size and design, likely originating from Japan during the mid-20th century, specifically the 1940s to 1960s, a known 'golden age' for tin toys. They are constructed from thin sheet metal (tin) that has been lithographically printed with various patterns and imagery. The largest top measures approximately 3 inches in diameter and features a vibrant yellow background with a cheerful, brown cartoon monkey depicted swinging on a branch. The monkey has large eyes, an open mouth with visible teeth, and a light blue collar. The words 'MADE IN JAPAN' are clearly visible in black print on the yellow surface. This top has a red rim at its base, showing some paint loss and wear consistent with age and use. The middle top, roughly 2 inches in diameter, exhibits a more subdued aesthetic with a cream or off-white background adorned with a repetitive, stylized floral design, possibly cherry blossoms, in shades of pink and light blue. Its top edge is a solid color, possibly light blue or grey. The smallest top, approximately 1.5 inches in diameter, has a striped pattern around its side, appearing to alternate between light green and a lighter shade, possibly white or cream. Its top surface is a solid, plain brown color, which could be painted tin or a cardboard insert. All three tops show signs of age, including potential minor dents, scratches, and color fading, although specific damages are not clearly discernible in the provided image beyond general wear and some scuffs on the largest top's red rim. The construction appears to be typical for mass-produced tin toys of the era, focusing on colorful and engaging designs.
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