Dick Tracy Patrol U.S. G-Man Prototype

Marx Prototype Mechanical “Dick Tracy Patrol” /  “U.S G-Man” Boat

This mechanical Dick Tracy prototype boat measures 11” long, 3 “ wide and 3-1/2” tall. The toys winds up, the key stem can be found in between the two tin figures, there is no on/off switch.  The toy is still functionable, when wound the propeller spins very quickly and with put hesitation. 

The toy is mostly hand painted with the only exceptions being the hull of the boat and it shows signs of both red lithography as well as brush strokes from being touched up during production and the red capped driver. The topside of the toy is completely hand painted including the Dick Tracy figure.  

I believe this prototype was made around the 1940’s. The red capped driver was being used in many cars, trucks and even tractors (Midget Climbing Tractor) during this time. At the same time, Marx is known for creating these prototypes years into production of the characters toys like Dick Tracy. 

Note the alligatoring paint and hand painted pin stripes.