Lilliput Robot
KT (K.T. Terai Shoten) • Lilliput Toy Line (Japanese Space Toys)
Toy Category
Wind-Up Tin Toy
Year Released
c. 1940s-1950s (Original); 1990s-2010s (Modern Reproduction)
Condition
Excellent/Near Mint; paint appears vibrant with no visible scratches, rust, or denting common in vintage specimens.
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $35.00 (Standard Reproduction Value)
Description
A boxy, light-blue walking robot with pin-action movement. Features orange/red feet, red circular ears, and a spring-like antenna on its head. The chest and face display colorful lithographed gauges and mechanical dials. It features fixed-pose blue 'wrench' hands and a permanent built-in wind-up key on the right side.
Market Value
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $35.00 (Standard Reproduction Value)
Auction Estimate
$10.00 - $25.00
Toy Identity
Edition Details
Modern Reproduction / Reissue (likely manufactured in China or Japan)
Model Number
N/A (Commonly identified by 'Lilliput' text on back)
Toy Type
Walking Robot, approximately 6 inches tall, lithographed tinplate
Toy Condition
Excellent/Near Mint; paint appears vibrant with no visible scratches, rust, or denting common in vintage specimens.
Packaging Condition
No Packaging; item is displayed loose.
Rarity & Significance
Low rarity as a reproduction, but high cultural significance. The original 1930s/40s Lilliput is considered the first tin toy robot ever made, making it the 'Grandfather' of all robot collecting. Copies like this are used most often for decorative display.
Special Features
Internal clockwork motor; walking mechanism triggered by integrated turn-key; coiled metal antenna.
Notable Variations
Original pre-war/post-war Japanese versions have a square keyhole and 'Lilliput' printed on the back. Reproductions often change the lithography colors slightly (brighter blues and oranges) and use a fixed key rather than a removable one.