Marx Toys Sampler: A History & Price Guide

by Michelle Smith

This new reference and price guide presents an informative “personal” history of the former Marx Toys Company plant at Glen Dale, West Virginia, where many of the fondly remembered Marx Playsets, doll houses, and toy figures of the “baby boomer” era were created and manufactured. More than just a catalog of these ever-popular and eminently affordable toys, this book provides Marx toy collectors with new insights into the planning and production processes employed by the original “king” of American toy makers. Included are insightful interviews with a Glen Dale plant model maker and with the son of a Marx artist, along with previously unpublished photos of a number of Marx toy and figure prototypes. With publication authorized by the current owner of the Marx Toys trademark, this book provides a unique and valuable behind-the-scenes look into the production of one of America’s premier toy manufacturers. -Features more than 100 color and 150 black-and-white photographs, including photos of previously unpublished production prototypes.
-Provides a comprehensive production listing—compiled by Marx model maker Gaylord Whipkey—over a thirty year period.
-Details Glen Dale plant production of the extensive and previously undocumented line of Marx lithographed metal doll houses.

Paperback

First published November 4, 2000