Are old tin windup toys worth anything?

Some are. Tin lithographed toys from American, German and Japanese makers have a devoted collector base. Value depends on the maker, the subject, age, condition and whether the toy still works. Character toys, robots and space toys, and toys with complex actions tend to draw the most interest, while common designs sell for more modest amounts.

Look for markings on the toy or its key, which may show the maker's name or country. Toys marked Made in Occupied Japan date to the years right after World War II. Condition is critical: bright lithography without rust, dents or scratches matters, and the original box can add a great deal. Do not try to repaint or force a broken mechanism.

Search completed sales for your exact toy, using the maker and description, and look at its condition compared to yours. If you have several older tin toys or a boxed example, an auction company that sells toys can tell you whether they belong in a specialty sale.