Hubley Manufacturing Company was founded in 1894 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The first toys Hubley produced were made of cast iron. Early models included horse drawn wagons and various toy guns. As transportation modes changed Hubley began to manufacture toys to follow suit, including numerous cars, trucks, motorcycles and other vehicles. Many of the most expensive Hubley toys sold at auction have been motorcycles, in fact. All Hubley toys were painted by hand.
Because the value of Hubley’s older cast iron toys can extend to well over $100,000 at auction, reproductions have been introduced into the secondary marketplace. It’s wise to have Hubley toys authenticated before paying a high price for them, or buy from a reputable dealer who will stand behind their claim of authenticity.
The Hubley Popeye motorcycle shown here sold at Morphy Auctions in September 2008 for $18,400.00.
Photo + text: http://antiques.about.com/od/onlinepriceguides/ss/aa051309.htm