In the 1950s and '60s, fine-quality Japanese-made toys flooded the market and sold popularly at five and dime stores worldwide. A top-notch Japanese manufacturer of these toys was Toplay Ltd., recognized by their T.P.S. trademark, who also made toys for importers like LINEMAR, Cragstan, Frankonia, Rosko, and Mego. Over 265 motorized, wind-up, battery-operated, tin, plastic, animal, and platform base toys are featured, including authorized editions based on Popeye and Walt Disney*r characters. Information on manufacturers, the trading and import companies, dates of production, patent drawings, dimensions, descriptions, and original packaging are included. A price guide and identification of over 200 Japanese trademarks complete this useful guide.

Known as the "Modern Toy" company from their trademark, the Masudaya Toy Company, Japan's oldest, was started in 1724 and is still in existence. The popular toys they have produced -- including aircraft, boats, cars, trucks, military vehicles, people, household appliances, space exploration, and much more -- depict real life events and have stimulated imaginations for centuries. This outstanding book is the first on Japan's leading toy maker and worldwide exporter. It features over 1200 photos of colorful and charismatic toys, most dating from the 1950s to the 1970s, the "Golden Age" of Japan's leading export. Toys produced into the early 1980s, including those for foreign markets, are included as well. Descriptions for over 1800 toys include their years of production, type of action, size, and current value. This essential reference guide will appeal to specialized and general toy collectors alike.