Horses and Riders Penny Toy, circa 1890

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Artifact Overview

Toy companies began making small, inexpensive, yet colorful, tin toys in the late 19th century. Over the years, toymakers stamped tin into shapes of animals, trains, boats, soldiers and even this couple riding horses. Children could purchase these low-priced toys from shopkeepers or street vendors. These mass-produced toys -- though not meant to last -- provided fun for just a few pennies.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Toy (Recreational artifact)

Date Made

circa 1890

Creators

Place of Creation

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

89.193.223

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Tin (Metal)

Dimensions

Height: 1.875 in
Width: 0.75 in
Length: 2 in

Inscriptions

on woman's skirt: GES. GESH. on man's saddle: M
Horses and Riders Penny Toy, circa 1890