Tonka Mighty Crane

 

 

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This TONKA MIGHTY CRANE is in very good condition. It dose have some signs of wear, but it is perfect working condition. All functions work, the wheels rotate, the boom arm raises and locks, the bucket also raises, lowers, opens and closes. There are no missing parts. "Mighty Tonka Crane" is spelled out on the sides of the cab. All the windows still have

 

 

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The Mighty Tonka crane, a cornerstone of the Tonka "Mighty" line, was officially introduced in 1965, following the immense success of the brand’s earlier pressed-steel, construction-themed toys. Known for its durability and realism, the crane evolved from early models with cord rubber tires and specific, sought-after casting, becoming an icon of 1960s, '70s, and '80s, play.

While Mound Metalcraft (later Tonka Toys) was founded in 1946, they transitioned from tie racks to toys in 1947 after inheriting a crane design. The "Mighty" brand specifically began to take shape with the introduction of large-scale, heavy-duty toys, culminating in the 1965 launch of the Mighty Crane. Early 1965 models featured cord rubber tires, while late 1965 and 1966 models introduced two-piece plastic rubber tires.

A key identifier for 1966 models, like this one, is the pin for the bucket reel, which passes completely through the cab for added durability. The cranes, often styled in bright, sunny yellow, were designed for outdoor play. The 1965 crane shared parts with the newly introduced Mighty Dump Truck, including similar frames, which sometimes featured "crane slots" in early dump truck models.

The line was acquired by Hasbro in 1991, but the classic steel design remains a high point for collectors, with early, well-preserved models frequently sought after.

 
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