When pondering prized collections, items owned by children under the age of 10 don’t usually come to mind. However, in most cases, children were the first to enjoy the simple, vivid beauty of vintage spinning tops. Widely manufactured from the 1930s through the 50s, the cheerful whistling or humming tops brought smiles to the faces of children who were growing up as the nation experienced both world wars and the era of the Great Depression.

The small tin structures usually range from 13 to 24 centimeters in width and are most easily recognizable for a kaleidoscope-like scheme of rich colors, notes Sally Lieblong, owner of Arkansas Peddlers Antique Mall in Greenbrier, who admires the colorful toys so much she’s amassed and displays a significant collection. Many of the tops, including the metal ones without designs, give a playful whistle when they’re set in motion. These solid metal tops were precursors to the colorful styles of the mid 20th century.

…

Read More »