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This friction-operated toy "Space Rocket Ship" is an example of the space-themed tin toys that were popular in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s. Although Japanese-made tin toys came to dominate the American tin toy market, this particular toy, which dates to 1952, was manufactured by the Automatic Toy Company of Staten Island, New York. Its box advertised that it could "shoot sparks as it speeds along."

Collector Michael O'Harro donated the Space Rocket Ship to the Museum in 1993.

 Display Status

This object is on display in James S. McDonnell Space Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.

James S. McDonnell Space Hangar
Object Details
Date ca. 1952 Country of Origin United States of America Type MEMORABILIA-Popular Culture Manufacturer Automatic Toy Co.
 Dimensions Overall: 2 1/2 x 4in. (6.4 x 10.2cm)
Other (box): 2 1/2 x 8 3/4 x 4in. (6.4 x 22.2 x 10.2cm)
 Materials Rocket ship, probably tin; wheels (2), rubber; box, original, cardboard
 Inventory Number A19970636000 Credit Line Gift of Michael O'Harro Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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