A Japanese toy car that’s nearly 60 years old has the highest estimate in our June Toy Auction for good reason – it’s by Nomura.
Nomura, also known as TN, emerged in Tokyo in 1923. During the 1950s and 60s it was one of the biggest tinplate toy manufacturers in Japan and some of its rarest offerings are highly sought after today.
The car, Lot 392, in our June 25 Toy Auction falls into this category. The unboxed, 1960s Nomura toy is a VW Beetle Space Patrol R-10 car. It’s in need of a clean and has some surface rust and a loose wheel, but still commands an estimate of £2,000-£2,500. Despite its age, it’s in working condition with flashing lights.
Tinplate toys were hugely popular after the Second World War and Japan was renowned for making them. A major success in the 1950s was Nomura’s Zoomer Robot, a series of toys based on the Robby the Robot character in MGM’s 1956 movie Forbidden Planet.
CLICK HERE to view our June 25 Toy Auction catalogue
If you have a vintage toy of any kind, from dolls and teddies to trains or live steam, items are invited for our July auction. Free, safe outdoor valuations are available at Hansons, Heage Lane, Etwall, Derbyshire, DE65 6LS, Monday-Friday, 8.30am-5pm, Wednesday, 5-7pm, Saturday, 9am-noon. To arrange a free virtual toy valuation, or a private appointment, please email: [email protected]
