Dictionary of Toys Sold in America was a project spearheaded by toy expert, Earnest A. Long and his wife Ada, to catalog all the toys sold in America starting in 1870. Though the plan called for the publication of six books, these two volumes, published in 1971 and 1976, are the only volumes we are aware that were produced. Combined the two books index, illustrate and grade in desirability over 2,600 toys. The vast majority of toys are those of locomotion. Cars, airplanes, horse and cart, even dirigibles are present. Perhaps the only toys not presented are dolls and banks which the authors had intended to cover in separate volumes.
The illustrations of the toys, which are for the most part catalog drawings, are small and cramped but provide enough detail for identification in most instances. A brief description offers additional information. For example, toy 1282 is
1914 Mech. Boy on Skates 8 1/4 inch. Nicely dressed cloth boy with natural hair wig. Wind up and watch him propel himself around floor. 4C (Desirability Code)
Long out of print, these books are hard to find and offer a wealth of information.
Price: $17.95
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