1990s Tin Musical Barrel Wind-Up Toy – Simm Marketing GmbH, Germany

A tin musical wind-up barrel toy by Simm Marketing GmbH, featuring cheerful farmyard scenes of a child on a tractor surrounded by animals, green dome top with red handle, and working crank mechanism.

This bright lithographed tin wind-upmusical toy was produced by Simm Marketing GmbH, a German toydistributor established in the early 1990s. The design is inspired by classicEuropean tin crank toys from the 1950s–1970s but made later as part of Simm’snostalgic retro toy line.

The cylindrical toy measures approximately 80 mm high x 110 mm wide andfeatures a green dome top with metal crank and red plastic handle. When wound,it plays a traditional mechanical tune through a perforated tin base. The sidesdepict a colourful pastoral scene with a child driving a red tractor,surrounded by a cow, pig, sheep, and farmhouse under a sunny blue sky.

The base is printed “Simm-Marketing GmbH, Wallersbacher Weg 2, 91154 Roth,Germany,” confirming its German manufacture. Although its visual style mimics1970s designs, this example dates from the late 1990s to early 2000s, when suchtoys were revived for collectors and children under classic branding.

Condition is Good, with minor wear and scuffing to the top surface, and fullfunctionality retained.

Features –

Measurements: 80 mm high x 110 mm diameter
Condition: Good – minor marks on top; otherwise bright and functional
Markings: “Simm-Marketing GmbH, Wallersbacher Weg 2, 91154 Roth,Germany”

Date Note: Later reproduction of 1970s-style tin crank toy; estimatedmanufacture late 1990s–early 2000s, Germany.

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Made from the following materials

Metal has played a significant role in the history of dolls and toys, with materials like cast iron, tin, and brass being used for centuries to create durable and appealing playthings. Each type of metal has distinct characteristics that have influenced its application in the toy industry, leading to a variety of designs and styles.

Cast Iron

Cast iron was one of the first metals used in toy manufacturing, particularly during the 19th century. Its strength and durability made it ideal for creating toys that could withstand the rigors of play. Cast iron toys were often made using molds, allowing for mass production and the creation of intricate designs. Popular cast iron toys included figurines, toy cars, and trains, many of which featured detailed craftsmanship and decorative paintwork. These toys were not only popular with children but also became collectible items over time, cherished for their historical significance and nostalgic appeal.

Tin

Tin, often used in the form of tinplate, became a favored material for toy manufacturing in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Tin toys were lightweight, affordable, and could be produced in large quantities, making them accessible to a wide audience. Tinplate was often stamped or lithographed with colorful designs, bringing characters and scenes to life. Classic examples of tin toys include wind-up cars, robots, and playful animals, many of which featured moving parts that delighted children. Tin toys remain popular among collectors today, valued for their charm and the artistry involved in their design.

Brass

Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, has been used in toy making for its attractive appearance and durability. It is particularly well-suited for creating smaller components, such as gears and mechanisms in wind-up toys. The shiny, golden hue of brass gives toys a sense of elegance and sophistication, often seen in decorative pieces and collectibles. While brass dolls are less common than those made from other materials, some artisans have crafted beautiful dolls with brass accents, adding a touch of luxury to their designs.

Throughout history, the use of metal in dolls and toys has allowed for a diverse range of creations, each reflecting the technological advancements and artistic trends of their time. The durability of metal ensures that many of these toys have stood the test of time, allowing them to be enjoyed by new generations of children and collectors alike.

At our museum, we celebrate the legacy of metal dolls and toys, highlighting their role in the evolution of play and the craftsmanship that goes into creating these timeless treasures. From the strength of cast iron to the whimsical designs of tin and the elegance of brass, these materials tell a rich story of creativity and innovation in the world of toys.

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Country:

Germany

Germany’s toy history includes wooden toys from the Erzgebirge, world-famous Steiff teddy bears, and intricate bisque dolls by companies like Armand Marseille. Modern innovations like Playmobil and Märklin trains ensure Germany’s legacy in the global toy market.

Based at Wallersbacher Weg 2, 91154 Roth-Eckersmühlen, Bavaria, Germany, SIMM Marketing is a family-owned B2B wholesaler and distributor specialising in toys, games, dolls, stationery and novelty items. The company has been operating for over 40 years and services retail and promotional markets across Europe. While primarily a distributor rather than a manufacturer, SIMM’s presence is relevant if you encounter toys marked “Made in Germany” (or exported through German channels) or note sourcing from Roth for European market lines. It appears to reflect the modern incarnation of the business (i.e., active 2000s onward).

Produced by:

SIMM Marketing GmbH

Product Code:

T0096

Dimenions:

110(h)

x 80(w)