Marx Playsets

By Alex Bergman

For American children of the 1950s and 1960s, Marx playsets were simply a part of life. The Untouchables (based on the TV show), The Alamo, or Cape Canaveral were popular sets of the time. There were Marx playsets for every child’s interest - from farm life to space exploration. When a child unwrapped the box under the tree, they were only limited by their imagination.

A playset contained a colorful combination of Marx figures, buildings, vehicles, and sometimes a play mat. These sets would revolve a common theme. For example, if it was a Ben-Hur playset it would include a Roman style racetrack, Roman figures, a set of chariots, stalls and Ben-Hur himself. Marx provided a complete make-believe world in which child could play.

The magic of those playsets never left many children. Instead, their love of the little plastic armies smoldered, near their heart, only to erupt later in life. These collectors are willing to pay thousands of dollars for the best preserved and most rare playsets.

Since many rare playsets can sell for thousands of dollars, collecting seems to be a hard hobby to get into - but there are ways to make it easier. First, look at garage sales and flea markets. Common sets can often be found, like Fort Apache (a cowboys and indians set), for only a few dollars.

Second, start looking for unboxed sets, as they might be made up of parts from other sets. A box in good condition can add 20% to a set’s value, and even more if it is unopened.

Finally, ask neighbors, friends, and family; many may have a set collecting dust in a basement or attic. They will be excited by the interest, and will enjoy reminiscing as they happily transfer the collectible playset.

Marx sets also accompany existing collections very well. For the collector of Boy Scout memorabilia, Marx made a Boy Scout Camp set; a space enthusiast will appreciate the Cape Canaveral set; and For the militaria collector, many Marx playsets depict battles from the American Civil War, World War II, The American Revolution and the Indian Wars.

The Flintstones, Gunsmoke, The Untouchables, and many other TV shows and movies also had tie-ins with Marx. There are Marx playsets compatible with many arenas of collecting.

Marx playsets are unique pieces of history. They shaped the development of a generation, and certainly helped form the character of those who used their imaginations on rainy afternoons to transport themselves to another world. Marx playsets are a reflection of a simpler time, a reminder of childhood innocence, and can be an excellent investment.

Alex Bergman is an advanced collector, and a staff writer for Manion’s International Auction House. He is currently studying Anthropology and History at the College of William and Mary.