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Tin Robots

One of the most common toys of the 1950s and 1960s was the small, wind-up tin robot.  They were found in five-and-ten-cent stores, discount stores, toy stores, and were also sold by street vendors.  There were robots who bounced, jumped, drove, played music, and any number of other things.  These days the tin robot is a "collectible," but they retain all their charm.

In the 1950s and 1960s, robots were associated with science fiction and space travel. Many tin robots reflect these themes.

This tank-like robot has piston-like arms which move as it rolls.	Note the missiles on his side!
Close-up of the panel under the robot;s face shows a screen with moon scene looking toward a planet.	The drummer robot's drumhead has a flying space-ship.
The robot drummer was one of the most popular robots.  This fellow waddles forward a step with each drum beat.	The large key is taken out of the robot when he runs.
This one was called a "Baby Robot" because it resembles a child on a tricycle.  Egg-shaped head and ball-joint arms are like the "Robbie" robot.	The bell on the rear spins and rings loudly.  From this side, you can see a "saturn" planet on its side.  The "trike" is replete with planetary motifs.
"Robot Lilliput".  This one is a licensed remake of the original Japanese toy. The robot walks forward with a mincing gait, arms swinging with each step. Gauges, hoses and serial numbers are lithographed on.	Other side - note the space-ship[ on the bell, and the air tanks on the robot's back.  Planets and stars are lithographed onto the "trike's" rear wheel.
Robot's nose, eyes, mouth and other facial features are embossed as well as lithographed.  He stands about 7inches tall.	Rear view with robot's name, plus lithographed rivets and handle.

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