An Exceptional "As-Found" Early 1920s American Cast Iron Toy

Offered is an antique cast iron Ford Model T Coupe manufactured by the renowned Arcade Manufacturing Company of Freeport, Illinois, circa mid-1920s. This is the highly desirable 5-inch variant replicating the early boxy 2-door Model T coupe, featuring the iconic vertical, flat radiator profile and simple cowl lines unique to the Model T era.

While standard black finishes dominate early production runs, this example features a lesser-seen, vibrant factory-original green paint finish. The toy has been preserved in untouched "as-found" condition, retaining an honest, time-earned patina that serious cast iron collectors prioritize.

The toy is structurally excellent and free of chips, cracks, welds, or structural breaks. The body is cast in a two-piece left/right halves design joined by its original internal construction. The interior undercarriage is clearly embossed with "ARCADE" on the interior frame lip and "FREEPORT, ILL" on the opposing side. The internal factory mold marks "8 S" and "9 S" remain visible on the inner casting walls. The vehicle retains its original nickel-plated cast iron spoked wheels turning on original steel axles.

An essential, unmodified addition for collectors of early Ford automobilia, early American transportation toys, and Arcade history.

Key Details At-A-Glance

• Manufacturer: Arcade Manufacturing Co.

• Origin: Freeport, Illinois, USA

• Era: Early-to-Mid 1920s (Circa 1923–1927)

• Material: Heavy Cast Iron

• Finish: Factory Original Green Paint; Plated Cast Iron Wheels

• Dimensions: Approximately 5" Long x 2" Wide x 2.25" High

• Weight: 15.5 oz

Condition Report

• Overall Condition: Very Good Antique Condition.

• Surface: Retains a strong percentage of its original factory green enamel paint with uniform play-wear, minor paint flakes, and small oxidized spots consistent with age. The surface is completely uncleaned and unpolished to preserve the original patina.

• Structure: No cracks, stress fractures, or repair work. Casting seams align properly.

• Components: Original wheels and axles. Wheels exhibit mild oxidation to the original plating but spin freely and sit level.

Authenticity Assessment

This piece displays key authenticity markers for an early Arcade manufacturing run. The casting features distinct interior embossed block lettering for "ARCADE" and "FREEPORT, ILL". The seam fitting along the roof and hood displays the slight, natural hand-fitted tolerances of 1920s foundry work, contrasting with the coarse, uniform edges typical of modern recasts. Additionally, the 15.5 oz weight density, correct peening on the steel axles, and smooth, natural patina transition between the bare cast iron and original enamel layer confirm period accuracy.

Reference

For historical research and catalog verification:

• Book Title: Arcade Toys

• Author: Al Aune

• Page / Plate Reference: Pages 12–16 (referencing early 1920s Arcade Ford Model T series castings, wheel types, and internal mark placement).