1960s Donald Duck Push Button “Maxi-Puppet” – Kohner Bros. Inc. (Walt Disney Productions)

A vintage push-button Donald Duck puppet toy produced under license from Walt Disney Productions by Kohner Bros. Inc., made in Hong Kong during the 1960s.

This vintage Donald Duck “Maxi-Puppet” was manufactured by Kohner Bros. Inc., East Paterson, New Jersey, under license from Walt Disney Productions. Kohner was well-known for its popular line of articulated “Puppet” and “Wobble Head” novelty toys, which operated via a spring-tension push-button mechanism located beneath the base.

The figure is made of painted plastic in Donald Duck’s signature sailor outfit, with articulated joints that collapse and re animate when the underside button is pressed. The base features the original foil label reading: “Donald Duck – © Walt Disney Productions –Maxi-Puppet – Push Button Underneath Base – For Ages 3 and Up – Made in HongKong for Kohner Bros. Inc., East Paterson N.J.”

Kohner Bros. was active from the 1940s to the late 1970s, pioneering mechanical novelty toys and licensed character products. The “Maxi-Puppet” line represents a mid-century evolution of their iconic push-button toys, larger and sturdier than earlier miniatures, designed for children and collectors alike.

Features

Measurements: 150 mm high x 120 mm wide x 60 mm deep

Condition: Very good vintage – some minor paint wear consistent with age and handling

Markings: © Walt Disney Productions; base embossed “Made in Hong Kong for Kohner Bros. Inc., East Paterson, N.J.”

Date Note: While some early Kohner push-button puppets were produced in the 1950s, the Donald Duck Maxi-Puppet design dates to the 1960s, confirmed by Hong Kong manufacturing origins and updated branding.

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Made from the following materials

Hard plastic dolls and toys emerged as a significant innovation in the toy industry during the mid-20th century, revolutionizing the way dolls were designed and manufactured. Hard plastic is a type of thermoplastic, characterized by its durability, lightweight nature, and resistance to breakage. This material became popular for creating dolls, action figures, and various toys due to its versatility and ability to hold intricate details and vibrant colors.

The development of hard plastic allowed for the mass production of toys that were not only affordable but also more resilient than earlier materials like composition or porcelain. As a result, manufacturers were able to produce a wide variety of designs, from classic baby dolls to trendy fashion figures, each with detailed facial features and movable limbs. This material also enabled the incorporation of new techniques, such as molded hair and painted eyes, which enhanced the realism and appeal of the dolls.

Among the earliest forms of hard plastic used in toy manufacturing was **Bakelite**, created in the early 1900s by Belgian chemist Leo Baekeland. Bakelite is one of the first synthetic plastics, made from phenol and formaldehyde. Its properties, including heat resistance and electrical insulation, made it ideal for various applications, including toys. While Bakelite itself is not commonly used in doll-making today, its introduction paved the way for the development of modern plastics in the toy industry.

**Catalin** is another early form of hard plastic that emerged in the 1930s and was often used for creating vibrant toys and dolls. Like Bakelite, Catalin is a thermosetting plastic known for its durability and ability to hold color well. Catalin toys often featured bright, translucent colors and intricate designs, capturing the imaginations of children and collectors alike.

As hard plastic became the standard for many types of dolls and toys, it solidified its place in the industry, leading to the creation of iconic brands and beloved characters. Today, hard plastic dolls and toys continue to be popular, appreciated for their longevity and the nostalgia they evoke. Collectors value vintage hard plastic toys for their craftsmanship and the unique place they hold in the history of toy making.

At our museum, we celebrate the legacy of hard plastic dolls and toys, highlighting their role in shaping the modern toy industry and their enduring appeal across generations.