The Postman Always Rings Twice

This could be the perfect title for this little tinplate telephone booth, although the toy itself was manufactured long before the 1981 film.

Its exact age remains a mystery. It could date from the 1920s or perhaps even earlier. There are no markings, logos or manufacturer's names to help identify it.

Could it have been made by Ernst Plank? Possibly, but we have yet to find a catalogue reference confirming this.

There is, however, one interesting clue. The base carries a stamp from Josef Kober, once one of Vienna's most famous toy shops. Established in 1868 near St. Stephen's Cathedral, the shop had a remarkable history before closing in 2019.

This little telephone booth is a wonderful example of the charming accessories once made for antique tinplate toy layouts.

Can anyone help identify its manufacturer?

Perhaps you have an old Josef Kober catalogue, a similar toy with the same shop stamp, or even a catalogue showing this exact telephone booth.

We would love to hear from you.

Original story and research by Hans van Dissel.