DENVER, PA — Morphy Auctions drew significant attention on May 29 with its sale of Part I of the prestigious Tom Sage Sr Collection, generating $2.6 million. The 295-lot auction showcased exceptional examples of antique toys and trains amassed over 50 years by the late Tom Sage Sr, an Allentown, Pennsylvania native and respected pioneer in the antique toy world.
The star of the auction was a 1904 Marklin Ferris Wheel, celebrated on the catalog cover. One of only three or four known to exist and likely the finest of its kind, the detailed piece featured original gondolas, stained glass accents, and figures. With provenance tracing back to a Brooklyn department store employee, the Ferris Wheel soared past its estimate to achieve $156,000.
Renowned for his Marklin boats, Sage’s collection did not disappoint. A Marklin clockwork paddle wheel boat, the Boston, dating from 1902-1904 and previously featured in Pressland’s Great Book of Tin Toys, sold for $79,950 against its $30,000-$40,000 estimate. Another standout was a green 1909 Marklin clockwork limousine, complete with its original chauffeur, tires, and lamps, which fetched $72,000, exceeding its $40,000-$60,000 range.
Additional highlights included a 29-inch Marklin oceanliner Amerika ($60,000), a circa-1900 tramway trolley with original figures and poles ($48,000), and a triple-globe Marklin streetlamp that doubled its high estimate at $24,000. A rare Bing taxi, mint in its box from Paris’ Le Bon Marche, realized $50,400.
Perhaps the most delightful surprise was a circa-1912 Fischer Father Christmas car, cherished for its depiction of toys and teddy bears, achieving $84,000, far surpassing its $15,000-$25,000 estimate.
The collection’s remarkable results highlighted the enduring appeal of antique toys. Known for his discerning eye, Sage spent decades assembling a premier selection of European and American toys and trains, setting a benchmark for quality.
Collectors can look forward to Part II of the Tom Sage Sr Collection, scheduled for auction on October 30 at Morphy’s flagship gallery in Denver, Pennsylvania. The eagerly anticipated event promises further treasures from this extraordinary collection. All bidding methods will be available, including live through Morphy Live.
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