Linemar “Speedway Racer” #4 Indianapolis Style Tin Lithographed Japanese Friction Toy *SOLD*

Linemar “Speedway Racer” #4 Indianapolis Style Tin Lithographed Japanese Friction Toy

This red tin lithographed friction “Speedway Racer” #4 Indianapolis style race car was manufactured in Japan by Louis Marx & Co. of New York City, New York under their Linemar brand.

This car is friction and when revved up the car rolls forward and makes a “motor” sound. The friction mechanism works and the car rolls forward as it should. The underside of the car shows that it has barely been used.

Marx is known for American tin lithographs, clean lines, and strong design work. This race car would look great in a car collection and the red coloration is especially desirable. The header pipers are especially elegant because they trace out four exhaust ports down the side.

Our example of this Linemar red “Speedway Racer” is in great original condition with no restorations, repairs, breaks or touch ups. The lithos on this piece are strong and show the usual patina, chips, scuffs, scratches, and wear that are normally found with age and play. It is approximately 6 ¾” L x 2 ½” W. 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 Louis Marx & Company of New York City, New York:

Louis Marx and Company was an American toy manufacturer in business from about 1919 to 1980 founded in New York City by Louis & David Marx. Its products were often imprinted with the slogan, “One of the many Marx toys, have you all of them?” Arguably, Marx was the most well-known toy companies through the late mid-20th century. Best known for their lithographed tin windup toys Marx was also one of the big four among American electric train manufacturers. An interesting fact is that Marx also successfully revived the Yo-Yo in 1928; it sold well even through the Depression.

Linemar Co. Inc. or more simply Linemar toys was the trade name under which Marx toys were manufactured in Japan, then sold in the United States and other countries. The reason to make Linemar toys in Japan was to keep costs down. Under the Linemar name, Marx produced The Flintstones and other licensed toy vehicles (Linemar Tin Toys 2015). The Linemar line also included airplanes that were produced in the colors of KLM, Pan Am and other airlines.