Offered is an antique 1930s cast iron boattail race car manufactured by the renowned Hubley Manufacturing Company of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. This highly collectible piece features the raised racing number "7" cast on the right side of the cowl, an aerodynamic streamlined body with a rivet-studded nose motif, a classic boattail rear end, and a separate nickel-plated cast iron driver.
The underside of the chassis is clearly embossed with the authentic raised factory mark "HUBLEY" alongside the factory mold number "1790" and foundry helper mark "5". The nickel-plated driver's internal extension is cast with matching assembly numbers. The car retains its four original disc-style nickel-plated cast iron wheels mounted securely to the original solid steel axles.
This toy is in pristine, untouched "as-found" condition, perfect for advanced collectors who appreciate authentic historical surfaces.
Technical Specifications
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Manufacturer: Hubley Manufacturing Co.
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Origin: Lancaster, Pennsylvania, USA
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Era/Age: Circa 1930–1935
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Material: Cast Iron (Body & Wheels); Nickel-Plated Cast Iron (Driver)
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Dimensions: Approximately 5" Long x 2" Wide x 2" High
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Weight: 7.5 oz
Condition Report
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Overall Condition: Very Good / Fine antique condition. 100% original structural integrity with no cracks, breaks, welds, or repairs of any kind.
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Surface/Paint: Retains an estimated 65%–75% of its original red cold-painted factory finish. It exhibits honest play-wear, surface oxidation, and paint loss concentrated along the high points, nose, and chassis edges, creating a superb, deep antique patina.
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Components: Complete with original nickel-plated wheels and separate driver. The nickel plating shows uniform darkening, minor pitting, and oxidation consistent with a 90-year-old toy. Axles are straight; wheels roll freely.
Authenticity Assessment
This piece stands as an exemplary benchmark for authentic pre-war Hubley casting. The interior reveals a distinctively smooth, high-quality, gate-trimmed foundry surface with a crisply defined HUBLEY logo and mold numbers (1790), characteristics completely omitted on modern reproductions. The two halves of the iron shell meet with precision tight-seams, and the tight, flat-peened ends of the original solid iron axles remain un-tampered with. There is absolutely no evidence of modern sand-casting graininess, coarse flashing lines, artificial chemical aging, or paint over-spray.
Reference
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Book Title: Cast Iron Toys
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Author: Outwater, A. & Outwater, E.
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Page Reference: Page 142 (See section detailing Hubley boattail racers and companion nickel-plated driver assignments from the early 1930s series).
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Item Description and Condition Disclaimer
We take great care in researching, identifying, and describing each antique item to the best of our ability, drawing on available resources and hands-on examination. However, as dedicated enthusiasts rather than professional appraisers or certified experts, we cannot offer guarantees on authenticity, age, origin, or precise valuation. We strongly recommend that buyers perform their own due diligence, including consulting reference materials or experts, and thoroughly examine the accompanying photographs. These images are an essential component of our listing and depict the item's actual condition, including any visible flaws, wear, or imperfections consistent with its antique nature. It is the buyer's responsibility to inspect each lot and form their own assessment on condition, description and authenticity before purchasing. All items have signs of wear commensurate with age and usage. The lack of statement regarding condition does not imply that the item is in perfect condition or free from any and all defects. If you have any questions regarding the condition of the items, please ask and we will be more than happy to answer and/or provide additional photos as requested.
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