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JULIA’S TOY & DOLL AUCTION HITS 35% OVER ESTIMATE
Fairfield, Maine, November 21, 2009 ~ The auction firm of James D. Julia ended their 2009 auction season with a bang, setting the stage for an even more successful 2010. As part of a 3-three-day auction event, Julia’s combined the efforts of Julia’s advertising, toy & doll division head Andrew Truman and glass & lamp department head Dudley Browne in an outstanding array of quality antiques. Rare heirlooms and treasures were offered from some of the finest collections and private homes in the country.
This recent event featured a grand diversity of fresh-to-the-market, quality goods for which Julia’s auctions are renowned. Bidder confidence seemed to be on the rise again, suggesting an upturn in the economy. This auction, which included fine French and German dolls, rare European and American toys, trains, coin-operated machinery, salesman samples, antique advertising items, and more hit over $600,000 against a low estimate of items sold of approximately $450,000.
Collectors were treated to a marvelous selection of fine French dolls including some exquisite examples from a Midwest collector. Seldom seeing the market was an outstanding 20” 200-series “Crying Jumeau”. This lifelike character with mouth agape and eyes wrung with ill humor went to a bidder in attendance for $37,375. From the same collection came two considerable 35” Jumeau 16’s with blue paperweight eyes who sold for $3,737 and $3,450 against their estimates of $2,000-3,000 apiece. Not to be outdone, a slightly larger 41” Handwerck 79 whose catalog description indicated her size would allow one to travel in the commuter lanes brought $4,312 versus the same expectations of $2,000-3,000. Unlike the typical elegance of the French bebe, SFBJ created the Poulbot character child, which was modeled after the poor orphans that wandered the streets of Paris in the early 20th Century. Seldom offered, this all-original pitiable scamp changed hands at $3,220, more than doubling the low end of its $1,500-2,500 estimate. And a 20” Steiner Fre A 13 bebe with exceptional modeling and finely painted facial features sold within her $2,500-3,500 estimate for $3,162.
Other examples included a gorgeous 19” French Schmitt bebe with pale bisque, deep blue paperweight eyes, and sublime expression. Wearing an antique burgundy dress, she changed hands at the upper end of her $9,500-12,500 estimate for $12,075. Also included were several lovely examples by Leon Casimir Bru such as a 14” fully articulated wood body fashion. Having been tucked away in a private collection for many years and including a number of original outfits, she sold for $6,612 within expectations of $5,500-7,500. The first lot of the day, a rare early 16” mechanical doll known as the “Nursing Bru” for her ability to suck liquid from a baby bottle, set the tone for a very energetic auction. The bids mounted, and despite a hairline crack in the shoulderplate, rarity overshadowed condition. When the hammer fell, so did the estimate of $3,000-4,000 to a price of $4,887.
An American doll with great provenance was an outstanding Martha Chase stockinet doll depicting George Washington. Dressed in formal attire including his traditional Tricorne hat, this doll had been passed down three generations through the Chase family themselves. In exceptional condition, this doll sold for $4,600 within an estimate of $3,000-5,000.
Other selections included a collection of Door of Hope dolls consigned by the family of the original owner, an American missionary who worked in China during the early 20th Century. The popularity of these dolls remains strong and prices reflected this. Among the selection were a finely carved and elaborately dressed bride and groom. Sharing their special day with Julia’s bidders, the pair sold for $4,025 versus an estimate of $2,000-3,000. From the same collection was a rare, early version of a Door of Hope policeman with mitt hands and unusual officer’s pillbox hat rather than the traditional conical paddy hat. He sold for $3,450 against expectations of $2,000-3,000. A youth in bunting known as “Baby in Swaddling Clothes” whose facial expression differed from that usually found more than tripled its $1,000-1,500 estimate to finish up at $3,220. And a charming Amah & Child depicting the loving grandmother carrying her swaddled grandchild on her back was a desirable pair bringing $2,760 against expectations of $1,500-2,000.
Following the dolls was a marvelous selection of antique toys covering a wide variety of genres. German innovation has long been a favorite among collectors of antique toys. Among the most sought after was a very clever tin litho clown artist toy by Phillip Vielmetter. When affixed with one of several double cams, the seated clown actually draws pictures on the paper in front of him with a turn of a crank. This ingenious toy created between 1895 and 1905 sold for $2,530 above an estimate of $1,000-2,000. A selection of fanciful Gunthermann hand painted tin toys included a bespectacled old gent affixed with angular wings on his shoulders and a clockwork propeller at his heels. He soared to $3,450 midway through its $2,000-4,000 estimate. He was joined by a near mint example of a Lehmann Kadi (a.k.a. The Busy Coolies) with its original box and accessories. Depicting two Chinese men carrying a tea caddy between them, the toy cruised past its estimate of $1,500-2,500 to land at $4,312. A tin windup toy by Issamayer depicting a waltzing couple dressed to the nines that would dance about in twists and turns sold for $2,070 versus a $1,000-1,500 estimate. On the non-mechanical toy side was a 10” blank button white Steiff bear that came from the caring family of its original owner. Appealing from head to toe, this charmer exceeded its $1,000-2,000 estimate to sell for $3,335.
American toys added to the parade of playthings. Heading the list was an all-original Ives horse head perambulator. Fresh from a New England attic, this stunning piece featured a figure with papier mache head and tin hands and feet, riding a wooden hand crank tricycle with cast iron wheels. This rare and desirable piece finished up at $8,050 against expectations of $7,000-9,000. Condition is an important factor, especially in this economy. A realistic portrayal of a 1920s cabriole coupe by Kingsbury was in exceptional condition and bidding reflected this. Exceeding a presale estimate of $1,000-1,500, it sold for $3,105. From land to see, we go to a huge Boucher live steam speedboat. Believed to be the largest pond boat the New York company ever made, it came fresh from an attic with an estimate of $1,500-3,500 to cruise to $3,450.
Other American offerings included several fine Buddy L pressed steel toys, highlights of which included an outstanding 8-piece outdoor train set. Consisting of the engine, tender, tanker, gondola, cattle car, flatcar, caboose, and rare crane car, the set boasted overall great condition. It sold for $6,325 within a presale estimate of $5,500-7,500. Likewise bringing $6,325, but nearly toppling its $3,500-6,500 estimate was a Buddy L bus with solid construction, original decals, and steel side mount spares. A scarce Buddy L pump scooter three-wheeled ride-on toy exceeded its $2,000-4,000 estimate to sell for $4,600.
In addition to the variety of toys was a grand selection of coin-op arcade, vending, and slot machines. The selection of slots included a variety of Watling Rol-a-Tops and the earlier Rol-a-Tor, which were two similarly styled machines, but with distinct differences. The 5-cent Rol-a-Top with nicely restored Bird of Paradise front joined the 5-cent Rol-a-Tor with the coin cornucopia front. They sold for $6,037 and $4,025, each exceeding their respective presale estimates. Another form of the Rol-a-Top with the cornucopia spilling a cascade of cherries down the front casting sold for $4,887 versus a $3,000-4,000 estimate. And a rare Little Duke slot with ball gum vendor and penny denomination featured striking Art Deco design and an unusual reel arrangement. It sold within its $2,250-3,250 estimate to bring $2,587.
For the last year, since the significant drop in our economy, auctioneer Jim Julia is certain to begin the auction with a brief intro and is certain to alert all bidders to be diligent throughout the auction saying, “This is a time of great opportunity for buyers. Whether you buy land, stocks, or antique collectibles, there is the possibility of a good buy. You should pay attention and be prepared to take advantage if a bargain occurs.” And opportunity certainly knocked. Bidders for a scarce silver dollar slot Jennings Club Chief on its integral Art Deco stand knew a rare opportunity when they saw it. An in-house bidder helped bring the final selling price to $5,750 against a $3,500-5,500 estimate. The following three lots completed the set of four Club Chief slots. However, the winner of the dollar machine got what he wanted and did not compete on the next three. As a result, they sold for $2,625, $2,250 and $2,250 against estimates of $3,000-4,000 apiece.
Vending included a rare, nicely restored Whiffs of Fragrance perfume machine with four scent choices and great style. It sold for $9,200 against expectations of $5,000-8,000. A selection of pulver chewing gum machines featuring the Yellow Kid highlighted a private collection centered on the comic character. Included here were two lesser known versions of the gum vendors, a wood and oak case version and an ebonized wood, glass, and porcelain version. The first saw active bidding from the phone table, climbing to $12,075 (est. $5,000-10,000). The second quickly surpassed its $2,000-3,000 estimate to bring $3,680.
Created by R.F. Outcault, the same man who first drew Buster Brown, the Yellow Kid character became a very popular mascot and merchandising tool for various products in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The collection included scarce figures, toys, trade cards, and pinback buttons. A lot consisting of a bevy of buttons from the High Admiral Cigarettes series sold for $1,150 against expectations of $800-1,200 as did a similar lot of buttons that carried an estimate of $700-900. A miscellaneous lot of Yellow Kid items including figural soaps and a scissor puppet that rose to new heights brought $1,380 against an $800-1,200 estimate.
Coin-op machines gave way to a selection of music machines. A Stella 14” disc playing music box with a carved mahogany case and barley molding around the top of the lid featured a storage drawer below. Fresh from an attic, it sold for $2,300, just above an estimate of $1,000-2,000. A Mermod Ideal Soprano interchangeable cylinder box with extra cylinders brought midway through its $2,500-3,000 estimate to bring $2,875. An Ideal Piccolo cylinder music box by Jacot & Sons in a carved oak case sold at the upper end of its $2,000-3,000 estimate to sell for $2,702. And a restored Victor talking machine with carved oak case and fluted wooden horn exceeded its $1,000-1,500 estimate to bring $2,300.
Miscellaneous items included a scarce Hoyt’s clockwork animated framed picture depicting a black man in country garb whose facial expression would slowly morph from simple and humble to a wide toothy grin while his eyes would appear to glance side to side. Almost hypnotic to watch, and certainly humorous, it found a buyer at $9,200 over its $4,000-6,000 estimate. And a Western Union telegraph stock ticker with its original dome and wooden pedestal base went to a collector for $9,775 within an estimate of $8,000-12,000.
The diversity of the sale continued with a selection of salesman samples for which Julia’s has been extremely successful. Following an offering in their June auction that featured the collection of the late John Woods of St. Louis, this sale contained some fresh-to-the-market pieces from a New England family. Included was a sample G.B. Gruman ice cutting machine with double flywheel and belt driven motor. Retaining its original paper label, it cut through its $1,000-1,500 estimate to bring $7,130. From the same consignor was a group of five salesman samples that included a sausage stuffer, an ice cream maker, hand truck, plow, and washing machine. This sleeper lot crept up ever higher, past its $800-1,200 estimate to settle at $4,600. An Adams Leaning Wheel road grader sample that, despite an early repaint, plowed through its $4,500-6,500 estimate to bring $8,625. And a primitive looking salesman sample grain grinder surpassed expectations of $500-800 to bring $1,035. An outstanding miniature glass showcase with German silver trim brought $3,162 against an estimate of $1,500-2,000.
A miniature of a different kind was a scale model of the largest American made locomotive. Created by H.B. Fisher, and taking twelve years to complete, this live steam model’s detail was exceptional down to the smallest detail. Accompanied by the original blueprints to create this mammoth work of art, it easily topped its $3,000-5,000 estimate to bring $10,350. Other trains included an outstanding Bassett-Lowke live steam engine and tender depicting the Royal Scot. Mounted within a custom display case and in near mint all-original condition, it neared the mid-estimate of 1,500-2,500 to finish up at $1,955.
The segment was rounded out by a collection of HO trains, all of which came from one collector who felt he was ready for his trains to enjoy new homes, having enjoyed them for several decades. The collection contained examples from many of the world’s obscure and sought after makers including a lot of two near mint brass locomotives by Australian maker Beyer Garratt in their original boxes that sold for $1,725 versus an estimate of $500-700. A lot of three Metrop crocodile locomotives with their original boxes brought $1,840 (est. $700-1,200). Italian makers Rivarossi were represented by a lot of HO passenger cars that sold above expectations of $600-1,000 for $1,380. Also changing hands at $1,380 and doubling its estimate was a lot of two Korean made brass locomotives with original boxes. And a lot of six Hamo locomotives ignored a $200-400 estimate to bring $1,150. Complementing the collection were several lots of original catalogs for Lionel, American Flyer, and Ives. A lot of 23 catalogs ranging from the 1920s to the 1940s sold for $2,070 and a lot of 21 catalogs from the same time period brought $1,265, each lot bringing above expectations of $400-600 each.
The day was completed by advertising and country store items such as a scarce Robeson straight razor countertop display case with a dozen celluloid handled razors in velvet lined compartments. The lot brought $2,587 against an estimate of $500-750. Other advertising included a nicely restored Coca-Cola Vendo-81 that saw very active bidding beyond its $1,500-2,000 estimate to the level of $3,162. A scarce Kanotex gas globe that once graced the top of a roadside pump featured a highly sought after orange glass body with a ripple finish. Bids climbed beyond its estimate of $500-1,000 to $1,380. And a lot of eleven assorted Winchester cardboard window displays shot past its $500-1,000 estimate to bag $1,725.
Julia's upcoming auctions include their winter antiques & fine art auction in February while a phenomenal firearms and military memorabilia auction will be held in March. Julia’s next toy & doll auction as well as their rare lamp & glass auction will follow in June. Julia’s is currently accepting consignments for these and other upcoming auctions. Call immediately for inclusion in these exciting sales. For more information or to place offers on unsold items, contact their offices at 207-453-7125. James D. Julia, Inc., P.O. Box 830, Dept. PR, Fairfield, ME 04937. E-mail: info@jamesdjulia.com.


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Dolls included a gorgeous 19” French Schmitt bebe with pale bisque, deep blue paperweight eyes, and sublime expression. Wearing an antique burgundy dress, she changed hands at the upper end of her $9,500-12,500 estimate for $12,075
American toys were highlighted by an all-original Ives horse head perambulator. Fresh from a New England attic, this stunning piece featured a figure with papier mache head and tin hands and feet, riding a wooden hand crank tricycle with cast iron wheels. This rare and desirable piece finished up at $8,050 against expectations of $7,000-9,000
A lesser known Yellow Kid pulver gum machine in a wood and oak case saw active bidding from the phone table, climbing to $12,075 (est. $5,000-10,000)
Vending included a rare, nicely restored Whiffs of Fragrance perfume machine with four scent choices and great style. It sold for $9,200 against expectations of $5,000-8,000
Seldom seeing the market was an outstanding 20” 200-series “Crying Jumeau”. This lifelike character with mouth agape and eyes wrung with ill humor went to a bidder in attendance for $37,375
A near mint example of a Lehmann Kadi (a.k.a. The Busy Coolies) with its original box and accessories depicting two Chinese men carrying a tea caddy between them cruised past its estimate of $1,500-2,500 to land at $4,312
A miniature of a different kind was a scale model of the largest American made locomotive. Created by H.B. Fisher, and taking twelve years to complete, this live steam model’s detail was exceptional down to the smallest detail. It easily topped its $3,000-5,000 estimate to bring $10,350
The selection of slots included a variety of Watling Rol-a-Tops such as this restored Bird of Paradise front that sold for $6,037 exceeding a presale estimate of $4,000-6,000
Advertising included a nicely restored Coca-Cola Vendo-81 that saw very active bidding beyond its $1,500-2,000 estimate to the level of $3,162
Salesman samples included a G.B. Gruman ice cutting machine with double flywheel and belt driven motor. Retaining its original paper label, it cut through its $1,000-1,500 estimate to bring $7,130
A scarce Hoyt’s clockwork animated framed picture whose subject's facial expression would slowly morph from simple and humble to a wide toothy grin found a buyer at $9,200 over its $4,000-6,000 estimate
An outstanding Martha Chase stockinet doll depicting George Washington dressed in formal attire including his traditional Tricorne hat had been passed down three generations through the Chase family themselves. In exceptional condition, this doll sold for $4,600 within an estimate of $3,000-5,000
A Western Union telegraph stock ticker with its original dome and wooden pedestal base went to a collector for $9,775 within an estimate of $8,000-12,000




SEIBER COLLECTION SMOKES AND WOODS ON FIRE AT JULIA’S
RECENT TOY, DOLL & ADVERTISING AUCTION
It was obvious from even before the very first lot hit the block that this was going to be no ordinary sale. In an auction world that is very much absentee and internet bid driven, Julia’s Fairfield, Maine auction facility was brimming with one of the largest crowds seen at a Julia toy and doll auction in many years. When the auction began, it became clear that this was going to be one for the record books. The very first lot, a group of cast iron toy signs, was estimated at $800-$1,200 and sold after a brief, but brisk bidding battle for $1,207. The very next lot, a near mint rare Arcade flat top green cab that doubles as a bank, estimated for $3,000-$4,000 sold for a record $14,350. Then the next, a flat top yellow cab, estimated at $2,000-$3,000 hammered at $3,450. And so it went all the way to a very impressive total of $1.3 Million, reflecting twelve new World Auction Records and a performance of the sold items of 63% over low estimate. Department head, Andrew Truman was pleased, saying, “These are the best results for a Julia Toy & Doll Auction in the last two and a half years. Despite the declining economy, the market is strong for quality goods that are reasonably and conservatively estimated.” Part of the success of Julia’s is a result of some decisions made in early December of last year. In a meeting involving all management and department heads in the Julia firm they discussed how to proceed in this new economy. One possibility was to do as 90% of all U.S. businesses had done in the past few months (i.e. let a significant portion of their staff go, cut back on services offered to their clients, ensure their commission charges would produce profit, etc.). But the Julia firm decided upon an entirely different approach. Jim Julia stated emphatically that his current auction company team was the finest that had ever worked for him and literally every employee was valuable to their success. Hence, he made a commitment to all the employees after that meeting that they would all be kept on full time and there would be no intention of cutting any positions. As a result of the meeting, an aggressive ad campaign was developed including what was referred to as the “Julia Stimulus Plan”. The “Plan” outlined a host of benefits and features to be provided to consignors in the future. Foremost was the 0% commission fee on expensive items. The theory of the Julia team was to charge less, give better service, and work harder and smarter. In tough economic times such as these, consignments to auctions drop off precipitously so Julia’s reasoning was that by being overly competitive he would make less profit but make it up by stimulating maximum consignments. This new approach has proven to be exceedingly successful for the auctioneer, buyer, and seller. There can be no question that their formula is working. The spring firearms auction this year grossed an incredible $11.5 million dollars, one of the highest ever in the firearms auction industry in the world (Julia’s set the world record in March 2008 at $12.7 Million). Their glass & lamp auction, a week earlier, was the finest most diversified offering of its type in the world this year and generated approximately $1.8 million in sales. In addition, as stated above, this toy & doll sale was a terrific success with a re-sale estimate of goods sold of $796,000. The final gross was $1.3 million (almost double the estimate). To date, their new business model is performing admirably in an economy that would normally dictate an entirely different approach.
It of course doesn’t hurt when the collection is as rich in condition as it is in rarity as that of the late Larry Seiber. The fortunate few who had the pleasure of knowing Seiber were familiar with this very private and somewhat eccentric individual’s insistence on the highest quality, condition, and rarity. He began collecting long before it became fashionable and was able to obtain key pieces before the world had been picked over by the current cadre of toy collectors and dealers. After a break-in several years back, Seiber, concerned with losing his cache, squirreled away the toys, rarely taking them out to enjoy them. So literally hidden away for many years, seldom seeing the light of day were treasures unknown to most of the collecting world. A quiet collector, Seiber amassed a splendid array of rare cast iron automotive toys, including a number of examples that are believed to be one of only one or two in existence. A phenomenal Arcade clockwork “Say it with Flowers” delivery cycle has been one of the most highly sought after toys in history. Consisting of an Indian motorcycle with rider affixed to a delivery van back end, it contained a powerful clockwork motor to propel the heavy cast iron body. All original and painted in brilliant aqua, finished with delicate floral decals and embossed details, it became the top seller of the auction selling for a massive $63,250 against a presale estimate of $50,000-75,000.
Collectors who thought they had seen it all were delighted with an Arcade utility truck, believed to be the only known example in existence. It featured a detailed red truck body on steel wheels with a green platform that ratchets to different levels by a hand lever on the side. Faithful to the actual truck after which it was modeled, and in marvelous condition, it sold for a record $22,425 against expectations of $10,000-20,000. Another rarity, even desirable in its standard red and green coloration, the Arcade Ingersoll Rand compressor truck is always a sought after piece. Seiber was fortunate to have found an unusual and only known example in orange with black trim. Originally owned by Jake Brubaker (worker at Hubley) and then purchased by Julian Thomas, Seiber acquired the truck in all original and in phenomenal condition. It finished up at $17,250, nearly five times its $3,500-4,500 estimate.
Taking to the skies was a selection of cast iron airplanes. Also formerly of Jake Brubaker’s collection, a Hubley Lockheed Sirius in red and black embossed “Lindy NR-211” across the wing was in incredible original condition and soared to $9,775 above an estimate of $4,500-6,500. A brilliant blue and yellow Kilgore TAT with ribbed fuselage and wing landed at $8,625 above its $3,500-4,500 estimate.
Other rarities included a phenomenal and vibrant Arcade bullet nose racer in yellow with nickel trim, green plastic windshield, and dual nickel drivers. Occasionally seen in reference books, is has actually been seen in person by precious few. It stood alone in the winner’s circle and set a new record, selling for $17,825 versus a pre-auction estimate of $8,500-12,500. A scarce Checker Cab in yellow with black roof and running boards, considered the quintessential and elusive vehicle, had the unusual embossed lettering above the front windshield, which was eventually ceased for buyers who preferred the Yellow Cab line. This rarity brought $23,000, exceeding a $15,000-20,000 estimate. A desirable rubber stamped Arcade Hathaway Bread & Cake truck in truly remarkable condition cooked at $8,050, burning its $5,000-7,000 estimate. An extremely rare cast iron Arcade armored car made for Brinks in the 1930s with a cast iron bottom, gun turrets, and was embossed with the Brinks logo in gold on the sides is one of only three or four known to exist on the planet. Perhaps the finest example available, it sold for $23,000 within an estimate of $20,000-30,000.
Construction vehicles included a scarce Hubley “Truk Mixer” consisting of a red truck body, green tank, and white balloon tires. Sharing the same Brubaker provenance, it finished up at $12,650 against an estimate of $6,000-8,000. Very seldom seen was an Arcade scoop on a four-wheeled base, further enhanced with chain caterpillar tracks. With paint as bright as the day it was made, it ignored a $1,500-2,000 estimate to sell for a record $10,925. An Arcade Mack high bed side dump truck in brilliant red and yellow set a new World Auction Record at $13,225, more than tripling its $4,000-6,000 estimate. Condition was also a factor in a large red Arcade Mack wrecker bringing a record price of $8,912 against expectations of $2,000-3,000.
The variety of variations expanded to the realm of buses. Included was an Arcade “Yellow Coach” bus that sold for $7,475 against expectations of $3,500-4,500 while a scarce red and white “Mack” bus brought $8,625 against an estimate of $3,000-4,000. And an Arcade “White” panel moving van in white with red trim, side mount rubber tires, and great form hit the block with a $6,000-8,000 estimate and moved into the better neighborhood of $9,775.
Joining Seiber’s collection was an impressive selection of other fine toys from a range of collections and estates. A last minute addition of a rare “Are You a Buffalo” bell toy by Gong Bell that depicted a full bodied bison that would rotate atop a globe found an eager buyer willing to pay $6,325 despite an estimate of $3,500-4,500. A large German papier maché candy container portraying Father Christmas was a great find. Fresh from a New England home and full of character, this piece sold for $4,600 against an estimate of $3,000-4,000.
For a new up and coming generation of collectors were some fantastic Baby Boomer toys from one Rhode Island collector who long ago vowed to buy nothing but the best in quality and condition. This grouping included over 40 boxed Japanese tin toys encompassing fanciful battery-op space toys and a number of rare pressed steel trucks including near mint, never been played with examples. Highlights included a scarce Katz Grand Central Station windup toy with its original box that pulled in at $2,242 against a $1,500-2,500 estimate. A Japanese battery operated space station by S.H. was the earliest version the company created and was designed when space travel was just a fantasy. Showing five illuminated rooms with TV and radar screens and rotating radar dish, it sold for $2,875, exceeding an estimate of $900-1,200. Other battery-op toys included a lot of two amusement park themed toys of Japanese manufacture, a Coney Island rocket ride and a sightseeing plane ride reminiscent of the Eiffel Tower. The duo sold for $2,012 nearly tripling its $700-900 presale estimate while a traveling carnival truck topped with a double spinning Ferris wheel with bright lithography and its original box sold for $1,380 against the same estimate.
Adding to the diversity of the sale was a collection of salesman samples from the collection of the late John Woods of St. Louis. Julia’s has offered salesman samples in prior auctions with great success, but no one was prepared for what was to come with this collection. The range of the collection was impressive. The quality unmistakable. And the prices were tremendous. Topping the list was a 48” miniature Old Town canoe. Featuring deep emerald green paint and all-original decals, it sailed past its $5,000-10,000 to land at $18,400. Woods’ grouping of farm related salesman samples saw much active bidding over the phone and via absentee. One bidder in attendance drove 18 hours from Indiana just to attend the sale, and was awfully glad he did. After seeing the items firsthand, opinions on some of the items went up, others went down slightly. In the end, he bought 10 models. “The staff at Julia’s was fantastic,” he said. “They were very accommodating, and the whole experience was worth every minute.” Of the several farm plows in the auction, one stood out among the rest. A walk-behind plow by Gale of Albion, Michigan in original old red paint quickly surpassed its $3,000-4,000 estimate to sell for $9,487. Other examples included a similar example of an Oliver chilled plow that sold for $6,612 against a $3,000-4,000 estimate. A brass sample of a planting machine with two formed seats, two large wheels in back and two smaller wheels in front, a rotating spacing disc, and a wooden box for holding seeds brought $10,350 versus an estimate of $1,500-2,500. A brass, wood, and nickel sickle bar mower attributed to Adriance, Platt & Co., featured various levers and gears including idle switch, and was exact in nearly every detail as its full sized counterpart. It cut through its $4,000-6,000 estimate to sell for $8,625. A small push mower with rotating blades and its seldom seen original wooden box also saw heavy action, finishing up at $4,025 over expectations of $500-1,000. The collection also contained some desirable windmills including a handcrafted Monitor windmill with its original carrying case that doubled as a display stand. It blew past a presale estimate of $2,500-3,500 to sell for $6,325. And a Rockford IXL windmill on an oil derrick type base sold for $7,475 against the same presale estimate. From a separate collection came a salesman sample road machine by Acme Road Machinery Co. of Frankfort, New York that consisted of a wooden horse drawn wagon body with crank activated conveyor belt that would scoop gravel into the segmented bed via a series of grates to separate by size. Complete with its original carrying case, it sold for $17,250 within expectations of $12,000-18,000.
Often holding appeal to collectors of salesman samples are U.S. Patent models, miniatures that inventors used to have to create when applying for a patent. Like salesman samples, these miniatures show the talent of bygone craftsman and provide a window into the past. This auction included selections from renowned U.S. Patent model expert and collector Alan Rothschild’s collection. Included was a marvelous model of an early forging machine that retained its original patent tag and sold for $5,750 against a pre-auction estimate of $3,500-4,500. And an improvement in weighing apparatuses brought $4,600, just above expectations of $3,500-4,500.
This sale also included exquisite and charming French bisque and German character dolls for varying collecting levels. From the latter category, a lovely and petite 15” BSW “Wendy” with striking and well molded features sold for $15,525 within a $14,000-16,000 estimate. A rare all-original Simon & Halbig 1358 black doll that came fresh from a Maine home, having been passed down through the family finished up at $6,325 against expectations of $4,500-6,500. And for the astute bidder, there were certainly bargains to be had. A rare and highly sought after 26” E.J.A. French Bebe produced by the Jumeau firm in the latter part of the 19th century with pale bisque, delicate mauve eye shadowing, and threaded amber paperweight eyes sold for $16,100 against an estimate of $17,500-22,500. A 21” 10 (over) E.J. Bebe with blue paperweight eyes and closed mouth was another beauty who came to the block with an estimate of $11,000-13,000 and finished up at $10,350.
The diverse offering of dolls also included a select grouping of Chinese Door of Hope dolls, made under the guidance of American missionaries from approximately 1902 until 1939. The purpose of the mission was to rescue girls, giving them a safe haven, teaching them knitting & other skills thus preventing the possibility of them being sold into slavery or entered into prostitution. Among the offering that has been packed away for the last 40 years was perhaps the most sought after character, a rare and elusive Manchu woman, with fancy carved headdress and delicate features, which sold for $8,050 against an estimate of 4,000-6,000. A priest, attired in an olive green cotton gown over blue shirt and pants with white cotton undergarments, and retaining its original import tag brought an impressive $2,875 against an estimate of $1,000-1,500.
For collectors of rare advertising was a varied offering of signs and displays, some of which seldom see the public marketplace. An outstanding Victorian-era lithograph entitled “View of Canada Southern Train Passing Niagara Falls”, a panoramic view of one of the world’s most visited natural wonders, exhibited excellent detail and color. It sold for a robust $11,500 beating out its estimate of $5,000-10,000. From the same time period was an exceedingly scarce and humorous tin sign that advertises Standard Shirts. It portrayed a quartet of men bathing in a country pond taken unawares by a passing group of attractive young ladies. Fortunately for both parties, the quick-thinking men are able to cover their nakedness with their Standard shirts, and disaster is averted. The piece more than covered its $3,000-5,000 estimate to sell for $5,175. A select grouping of Coca-Cola included a Tiffany-style leaded glass hanging lamp shade with the desirable embossed tin leaf edge bottom. In outstanding condition, it sold for $5,175 versus a $3,500-4,500 estimate. And a Winchester print by H.R. Poore depicting four large hounds had been found recently in an attic in its original mailing tube. Because of a lack of exposure to daylight, the colors were just as vibrant as the day it was made. And again, condition means everything, bringing this piece to $4,600 against an estimate of $2,000-3,000.
Fresh from a Bangor, Maine collector was a massive array of pre- and postwar Lionel trains and railroad memorabilia that literally filled his basement and attic. This much anticipated collection received tremendous response from bidders in attendance and on the phone. Expected to bring a total of approximately $55,000-85,000, the final tally was in excess of $98,000. The railroad memorabilia focused on Maine, but also included many national lines. It was comprised of a wide assortment of large locomotive bells, headlamps, station accessories, porcelain and wooden junction signs, silver service pieces, uniforms, lanterns, etc. One of the highlights was a railroad ticket cabinet with a tambour front door revealing interior compartments full of 1950s Maine Railroad tickets. Manufactured by Stromberg Allen & Co., Chicago, it went out at more than seven times its $500-750 estimate for $3,565. A lot of 14 porcelain junction signs from around Maine also brought $3,565, beating out its estimate of $600-900.
The sale was rounded out by a selection of coin-operated arcade and slot machines as well as a grouping of music boxes and other miscellaneous items. The coin-op category was highlighted by a scarce 1937 World Series baseball game by Rockola. Featuring many star athletes of the day, the game’s action was far superior to other games of the period. Estimated for $30,000-35,000, it hit a line drive right up the middle and sold for $33,350. A Baker-Troll 13" Swiss interchangeable cylinder music box with burl veneers, ebonized wood with floral swag inlay and mother of pearl medallions was accompanied its original and equally elaborate matching table. It sold for $8,050 at the upper end of its $6,500-8,500 pre-auction estimate. And a collection of antique pencil sharpeners from the John Woods collection exhibited early ingenuity and form. A scarce and highly sought after Chelsea sharpener consisting of green cast iron trough with rotating vertical disc affixed with sandpaper went right to the point, selling for $3,162 (est. $2,500-3,500). And an exceedingly rare President, although simple in design, exuded elegance and charm. Consisting of a round cast iron trough base and a cast brass finger grip top that revolves around a circular file center, it brought $3,680 against an estimate of 1,500-2,500.
Julia's upcoming auctions include their fabulous end of summer antiques & fine art extravaganza in August. Always the highlight of the New England summer auction season it will feature approximately $5 Million in spectacular merchandise. Julia’s important firearms and military memorabilia auction will take place in October. Julia’s next toy & doll auction as well as a rare lamp & glass auction will take place in November. Julia’s is currently accepting consignments for these and other upcoming auctions. Call immediately for inclusion in these exciting sales. For more information, contact their offices at 207-453-7125. James D. Julia, Inc., P.O. Box 830, Dept. PR, Fairfield, ME 04937. E-mail: info@jamesdjulia.com.


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Even desirable in its standard red and green coloration, the Arcade Ingersoll Rand compressor truck is always a sought after piece. Originally owned by Jake Brubaker (former worker at Hubley) and then purchased by Julian Thomas, Seiber acquired the truck in all original and in phenomenal condition. It finished up at $17,250, nearly five times its $3,500-4,500 estimate
This near mint rare Arcade flat top green cab that doubles as a bank, estimated for $3,000-$4,000 sold for a record $14,350
Construction vehicles included a scarce Hubley “Truk Mixer” consisting of a red truck body, green tank, and white balloon tires. Sharing the same Brubaker provenance, it finished up at $12,650 against an estimate of $6,000-8,000
A scarce Checker Cab, considered the quintessential and elusive vehicle, had the unusual embossed lettering above the front windshield, which was eventually ceased for buyers who preferred the Yellow Cab line. This rarity brought $23,000, exceeding a $15,000-20,000 estimate
Collectors who thought they had seen it all were delighted with an Arcade utility truck, believed to be the only known example in existence. Faithful to the actual truck after which it was modeled, and in marvelous condition, it sold for a record $22,425 against expectations of $10,000-20,000
Other rarities included a phenomenal and vibrant Arcade bullet nose racer. Occasionally seen in reference books, is has actually been seen in person by precious few. It stood alone in the winner’s circle and set a new record, selling for $17,825 versus a pre-auction estimate of $8,500-12,500
A Hubley Lockheed Sirius plane was in incredible original condition and soared to $9,775 above an estimate of $4,500-6,500
An Arcade “White” panel moving van in white with red trim, side mount rubber tires, and great form hit the block with a $6,000-8,000 estimate and moved into the better neighborhood of $9,775
A phenomenal Arcade clockwork “Say it with Flowers” delivery cycle has been one of the most highly sought after toys in history. All original and painted in brilliant aqua, finished with delicate floral decals and embossed details, it became the top seller of the auction selling for a massive $63,250 against a presale estimate of $50,000-75,000
A salesman sample road machine by Acme Road Machinery Co. consisted of a wooden horse drawn wagon body with crank activated conveyor belt that would scoop gravel into the segmented bed via a series of grates to separate by size. Complete with its original carrying case, it sold for $17,250 within expectations of $12,000-18,000
An outstanding Victorian-era lithograph entitled “View of Canada Southern Train Passing Niagara Falls”, a panoramic view of one of the world’s most visited natural wonders, exhibited excellent detail and color. It sold for a robust $11,500 beating out its estimate of $5,000-10,000
A rare all-original Simon & Halbig 1358 black doll that came fresh from a Maine home, having been passed down through the family finished up at $6,325 against expectations of $4,500-6,500
German characters included a lovely and petite 15” BSW “Wendy” with striking and well molded features that sold for $15,525 within a $14,000-16,000 estimate
A collection of Baby Boomer toys included a Japanese battery operated space station by S.H. that was designed when space travel was just a fantasy. It sold for $2,875, exceeding an estimate of $900-1,200
A Baker-Troll 13" Swiss interchangeable cylinder music box with burl veneers, ebonized wood with floral swag inlay and mother of pearl medallions was accompanied its original and equally elaborate matching table. It sold for $8,050 at the upper end of its $6,500-8,500 pre-auction estimate
A brass, wood, and nickel salesman sample sickle bar mower attributed to Adriance, Platt & Co. was exact in nearly every detail as its full sized counterpart. It cut through its $4,000-6,000 estimate to sell for $8,625
A salesman sample walk-behind plow by Gale of Albion, Michigan in original old red paint quickly surpassed its $3,000-4,000 estimate to sell for $9,487
Topping the list of John Woods' collection of salesman samples was a 48” miniature Old Town canoe. Featuring deep emerald green paint and all-original decals, it sailed past its $5,000-10,000 to land at $18,400
A brass sample of a planting machine with two formed seats, two large wheels in back and two smaller wheels in front, a rotating spacing disc, and a wooden box for holding seeds brought $10,350 versus an estimate of $1,500-2,500
A Winchester print by H.R. Poore depicting four large hounds had been found recently in an attic in its original mailing tube. Because of a lack of exposure to daylight, the colors were just as vibrant as the day it was made. And again, condition means everything, bringing this piece to $4,600 against an estimate of $2,000-3,000
A rare and highly sought after 26” E.J.A. French Bebe produced by the Jumeau firm in the latter part of the 19th century sold for $16,100 against an estimate of $17,500-22,500
Also included was a select grouping of Chinese Door of Hope dolls, made under the guidance of American missionaries. Among the offering that has been packed away for the last 40 years was a rare and elusive Manchu woman with fancy carved headdress and delicate features, which sold for $8,050 against an estimate of 4,000-6,000




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