G. I. Joe Bouncing Jeep (Robin Williams own)

(Robin's own) Authenticated by Sotheby's Robins most prized childhood possession. "G. I. JOE AND HIS BOUNCING JEEP" CLOCKWORK TOY, CIRCA 1944. Immaculate condition for age. Quite possibly the finest available. Driving a “Jeep” that looks suspiciously like a tractor, the first-EVER G.I. Joe-branded toy was a cute little soldier doing his darndest to keep a “jet propelled” Jeep traveling at “supersonic speed” safely on the road. The toy’s pressed-tin construction, with bright litho- painted graphics, assures that even 70 years after its construction—it still looks GREAT! This lithographed tin wind-up toy was manufactured by Unique Art Manufacturing Company under license from the G.I. Joe Corporation. It features a spring-action mechanism that can be activated with a key. The toy then comically jerks back and forth while the soldier is propelled forward, making his helmet fall over his eyes. This is one example of how many toy companies tried to capitalise on the United States patriotic mood after WWII. Unique Art"G. I. Joe and His Bouncing Jeep" Clockwork Toy (approximately 7 1/2 x 8 in.; 19 x 20.5 cm). Lithographed tin vehicle (patent 4/11/44), various colours, mechanised design allows G.I. Joe figure to bounce up and down as the Jeep moves in an eccentric pattern, key present. Original finish, (hood, helmet, and steering wheel immaculate). The world's first G.I. Joe, with Unique Art's all-metal toy-line pre-dating Hasbro's by more than 20 years. Condition Report: excellent Plus to Near Mint & Working Robin McLaurin Williams (July 21, 1951 – August 11, 2014) A Unique Possession From The Collection of Marsha and Robin Williams Sold with original Creating a Stage: The Collection of Marsha and Robin Williams Sotheby's NY Catalogue. Hide full description Dimensions W20.5 x H19.0 cm