This is a remarkable example of early 20th-century American toy manufacturing: a Hubley Cast Iron Terraplane Coupe. Produced during the height of the "Streamline Moderne" era, this toy was designed to mimic the innovative Hudson Terraplane, known for its aerodynamic styling. This specific model features the distinctive "V-shape" grille and sloping rear deck that defined the Terraplane's look in the mid-1930s.
The piece retains a high percentage of its original vibrant orange enamel on the body, contrasted by black fenders and a silver-painted grille and bumper. It features the original white rubber tires on red wooden hubs, with the spare tire still intact at the rear.
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Manufacturer: Hubley Manufacturing Company
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Origin: Lancaster, Pennsylvania, USA
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Age: Circa 1934–1938
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Material: Painted Cast Iron
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Weight: 4.8 oz
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Dimensions: 3.75" L x 1.5" W x 1.5" H
Condition: This item is in Very Good to Fine antique condition. It exhibits a "dry" original surface with no signs of overpainting or repairs. There is expected "play wear" and minor paint loss, particularly on the roof and high points of the fenders, which has developed a desirable historical patina. The white rubber tires show some typical age-related hardening and minor flat-spotting but remain fully intact and display beautifully.
Authenticity Assessment
This item is believed to be an original Hubley production from the 1930s. The authenticity is confirmed by several key markers visible in the images:
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Casting Marks: The underside features the correct embossed mold number 2149 and the factory assembly number 17.
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Hardware: The axles are secured with the original mushroom-cap rivets, never tampered with or replaced.
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Mold Quality: The interior casting shows the characteristic "orange peel" texture and smooth seams typical of Hubley’s high-pressure sand casting process, unlike the pitted, grainy texture found in modern reproductions.
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Patina: The oxidation on the exposed iron (particularly under the fenders) is consistent with nearly a century of natural aging.
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Reference
Book Title: Cast Iron Toys Author: Myra Outwater and Eric Outwater Page Number: 157 (Note: Hubley's streamlined series and Terraplane models are extensively documented in this volume as staples of 1930s American toy production.)
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Item Description and Condition Disclaimer
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