Chein Tin Lithographed Drummer Boy Soldier Windup Toy *SOLD*

Vintage J. Chein Tin Lithographed Drummer Boy Soldier Windup Toy

Classic and desirable, this Chein Drummer beats to a steady beat once wound up.  The lithography hearkens back to the Nutcracker Suite and early kids books for Christmas Time.  That, or it can be a romantic version of a band member.

The tin is in good used condition and functions well.  There is wear on the drum head and base, normal play wear.  Condition is original.

Our example of this Chein drummer boy is in great all original condition with no breaks, restorations, repairs, or touch ups. This piece shows the usual patina, dust, chips, scuffs, surface rust, scratches, and wear that are to be expected from age and play. It is approximately 8 ¾” H. This would be a great addition to any collection. We invite you to view the photos to further determine quality and condition.

A brief history of J. Chein and Company:

J. Chein & Co. was founded in a loft in New York City, New York by Julius Chein. They produced toys from 1903 until about 1979. Chein specialized in tin mechanical toys, banks, drums, and tea sets. Chein’s tin toys were mostly lithographed. Chein`s line of comic and circus tin toys received wide acceptance in the 1930’s and leading up to World War II.

In 1907, Chein moved to its full production plant to Harrison, New Jersey. In the 1920’s and early 1930’s, Chein produced a popular line of toys under the “Hercules” name, rather than their own name. In the 1970’s Chein became known as Chein Industries, Inc.

In 1979, toy manufacturing was phased out entirely. Then in the late 1980’s, Chein Industries, Inc. was sold to the Atlantic Can Company, who then changed its name to Atlantic Cheinco Corporation. The company was beset with problems with manufacturing resulting from environmental issues. Due to their issues, in 1992 they filed for bankruptcy protection. Atlantic Cheinco Corporation’s assets were then purchased by Ellisco, In. of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, which was a division of CSS Industries, Inc. In 1994, CSS then sold Ellisco to the U.S. Can Company of Baltimore, Maryland, who continues to produce stamped metal products.