Presenting an exceptional pre-war group of four (4) authentic Tootsietoy No. 4651 Fageol Safety Coach buses, manufactured by Dowst Manufacturing Co. in Chicago between 1927 and 1933. Cast in heavy slush-molded zinc alloy, these iconic 3.5-inch transit vehicles capture the early Streamline era of American transportation in a vibrant primary color palette featuring two orange variants, one powder blue, and one crimson red. 

Each example retains its original single-piece nickel-plated disc wheels mounted on steel wire axles with solid mushroom-crimped ends, rolling smoothly across all four chassis. Three of the buses carry the crisp, raised "TOOTSIE TOY" factory mark cast directly into the underside ceiling bed, while the fourth orange example displays the smooth interior casting variation characteristic of early production runs. Displaying honest, unaltered play-wear with original cold-enamel paint edge-chipping and a light, historic age patina, this complete multi-color group offers an instant display-ready collection for the discerning pre-war diecast enthusiast or vintage industrial decor collector. 

Item Specifics

• Manufacturer: Dowst Manufacturing Co. (Tootsietoy), Chicago, IL, USA

• Model Number: No. 4651 / No. 110 Series

• Age/Era: Circa 1927–1933 (Pre-WWII)

• Material: Diecast Zinc Alloy (Slush Molded Metal / White Metal) with Nickel-Plated Steel Wheels & Steel Wire Axles

• Dimensions: Approximately 3.5" L × 1.0" W × 1.25" H each

• Weight: 281 grams total (combined for 4 buses)

• Color Variants Included: Two (2) Orange, One (1) Powder Blue, One (1) Crimson Red

• Reference Literature: Tootsietoy: Automotive Toys, General Series & Other Lines by David Richter (Collector Books, p. 48–52); also referenced in Schiffer's Cast Iron & Slush Mold Toys reference guides.

• Condition Notes: Good to Very Good antique play-worn condition. All four buses are structurally intact with no broken posts, missing roof sections, or cracked castings. All 16 nickel-plated disc wheels and steel axles are present, straight, and roll freely. Paint coverage varies between 70%–85% across the lot with typical play-wear, corner chipping, and minor surface metal patina/oxidation. Three buses retain crisp "TOOTSIE TOY" raised casting marks on the underside; one orange variant features an un-marked internal casting cavity consistent with early batch variations.

Authenticity Assessment This set of four pre-war diecast buses displays distinct manufacturing markers consistent with authentic Dowst Manufacturing Co. (Tootsietoy) production from the 1927–1933 era. Three of the four casting undersides feature raised, integral "TOOTSIE TOY" block-letter markings molded directly into the zinc alloy ceiling bed. All four examples retain original single-piece nickel-plated steel disk wheels mounted on thin solid steel wire axles, with characteristic mushroom-crimp end caps. The body castings show appropriate mold lines, open passenger window apertures, and a detailed front radiator grille modeling the iconic Fageol Safety Coach motif. Paint across all four pieces displays authentic age-appropriate play wear, edge micro-chipping, surface oxidation, and minimal lead-free/slush-zinc degradation—confirming original factory cold-applied enamel finish with no modern repainting or reproduction components.

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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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