Posted 14 years ago
Craig
(1 item)
This old digger was found on an old farmsite behind a demolished barn. The mechanics still work and everything is original. We've seen similar items dated back to the 1920's but not sure exactly how old this digger is or what it might be worth.
There were a number of manufacturers that made this type of toy from around 1915 through the 1960s, including Buddy L, Marx.. pretty much all the pressed steel and tin toy manufacturers. Even TN (Nomura, Japan) made steam shovels, diggers, whatever the respective toymaker decided to call it. Early 1920s Buddy L steam shovels in good condition that survived WW II metal drives have been known to fetch $300, $400 and up. Marx samples see higher prices as a general rule, but I don't think this item is either Buddy L or Marx. This piece seems to be in fair to good condition, but is definitely worth restoring if you would like a great display item. In this condition, the value is probably $70-$90. If you could identify a makers mark that would definitely help determine a more accurate value.
I think it's a Marx I have one the same and has the original decals "Lumar Construction" Mine is painted green Bob