Dexter with Rider Early American Tin Pull Toy

Circa 1880s: This sculptural 12.25" long early American tin pull toy manufactored by James Fallow and Sons of Philadelphia depicts the immensely popular racehorse Dexter (1858-1888) being ridden by a gentleman wearing a tophat. There are quite a few examples of this toy sans rider, but this is the first one we have seen with a jockey, which adds to its scarcity and desirability. The paint is original, and we can find no touch ups or repairs. Dexter was a very versatile trotter who could race under saddle (as depicted here) or hitched to a wagon. Dexter was commonly depicted in prints and on weathervanes, and it only follows that the famous racehorse would be portrayed on toys so that his young admirers might imagine themselves sprinting toward the finish line astride their favorite steed.