SPACE SHIP NO. X-5 - MASUDAYA - JAPAN

An early lithographed tin rocket. There are two versions of this wheeled rocket, one with a greeny-blue color and one in light brown. body variations. The rocket has three portholes on each side and X-2 on the tail fins. Lithp cockpit detailing. Spark windows at the rear. Friction action with noise and spark.

The rocket has long tailfins that extend beyond the exhaust, allowing the rocket to stand upright. 19cm

This toy is featured in a 1953 Masudaya advertisement.The Space Ship No. X-5 of the largest space rockets made by Masudaya in the 1950s. The blue, red and yellow lithographed tin rocket measures 30cm (12 inches) It has three wheels. Three long tail fins extend well behind the rear of the body and enable the rocket to stand elegantly in an upright position. There is simplified litho detailing of windows and a canopy. At the rear are two cellophane spark windows. Friction action with spark and noise.

Two box versions are known. The lower paper label is the earlier version.

First sighted in an August 1952 Masudaya Trade ad, and in a 1953 ad.

MT X5, X 5

Image courtesy of Smith House Auctions.