Marx Toys “Animal Kingdom” Miniature Grizzly Bear with Original Box
1962 Marx Toys Animal Kingdom miniature Grizzly Bear figure made in Hong Kong, complete with original illustrated box.
This miniature Grizzly Bear figurine is part of the Animal Kingdom series produced by Marx Toys in the early 1960s. The series featured small, hand-painted plastic animals, each accompanied by a colourful box printed with educational information about the species inside. Designed in the United States and manufactured in Hong Kong, the Animal Kingdom range reflected Marx Toys’ commitment to affordable, educational play during the post-war toy boom.
The standing bear figure is finely moulded in brown-toned plastic, highlighting Marx’s attention to detail even at a small scale. The original box is vividly printed with an illustrated Grizzly Bear on the front and a descriptive text on the back, noting the species’ size, habitat in the Great Plains and Rocky Mountains, and maternal instincts. Both the figure and box are marked “Made in Hong Kong.”
Measurements:
- Bear: 60 mm (H) x 20 mm (W)
- Box: 50 mm (L) x 45 mm (H) x 20 mm (W)
Material: Plastic figure with printed cardboard box
Condition: Excellent condition for age; box shows minor wear and edge scuffing.
Estimated era: 1962
Manufacturer: Marx Toys, designed in the USA, manufactured in Hong Kong
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.
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