Additional Coverage:
- ‘Antiques Roadshow’ guest says ‘you’re kidding’ after expert revealed the value of her toy soldiers (marketrealist.com)
Toy Soldiers from Laurel and Hardy Film Appraised at $75,000 on ‘Antiques Roadshow’
An “Antiques Roadshow” guest received a stunning surprise when her collection of vintage toy soldiers was appraised for a staggering $75,000. The guest explained that her grandfather, a high-ranking employee at Hal Roach Studios, had given her the toys. They were used in the Laurel and Hardy film “Babes in Toyland,” originally a 1903 operetta by Victor Herbert, which Roach adapted using stop-motion animation.
Expert Laura Woolley highlighted the historical significance of the soldiers. Their use in the film represents a pivotal moment in the development of special effects, making them highly desirable to collectors.
Woolley noted their rarity and the fact that they represent the early days of stop-motion animation in film. The guest’s set included the coveted “burglar” figure, known to be a collector favorite.
The guest recounted a previous appraisal where she was told the five soldiers might be worth $1,000. Woolley, however, estimated each soldier to be worth $10,000 to $15,000 individually, bringing the total value of the set to an astonishing $75,000.
The guest, visibly shocked, responded with disbelief and delight, promising to cherish the collection. Woolley advised her to release the soldiers onto the market gradually to maintain their high value.