Information on Old Tonka Trucks
Three men formed a partnership in 1946 in order to manufacture gardening tools. In 1947, they came up with the idea of making metal toy vehicles. They named the toys Tonka, from the Sioux-Dakota word meaning great. In 1955, the partnership became Tonka Toys, Incorporated.
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Types
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Tonka trucks were produced as far back as 1947, but the most popular truck -- the Mighty Dump truck -- was not manufactured until 1964. This introduced the Mighty line of cranes, shovels, bulldozers and other vehicles. These are considered to be classics and are popular with collectors.
Price
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Prices for older Tonka trucks vary depending on the condition, scarcity and collector's interest. Toy collectors say that a collectible toy appreciates in value during the first 60 years of its life. Tonka trucks aren't quite that old in 2010, but asking prices for a pre-1980 Mighty Dump truck range from $100 to $600. Mint condition trucks with the original box fetch the highest prices.
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Fun Fact
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The Winnifred Museum in Winnifred, Montana boasts what may be the largest Tonka Toy collection in the world. Over 3,000 Tonka toys are displayed in the museum.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Thinkstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images
Comments
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I have the three piece 1950's Tonka steel, Red rescue set with the #5 rescue ambulance, #5 fire truck and #5 Hook & Ladder. I would like to get a value for the set. It's in fine condition with all hoses, fire pump, etc. Missing two side ladders on small truck. Thanks.
