The bulk of vintage dexterity games were manufactured in Germany, France, and the UK. These kinds of games were also produced in the US during the first half of the 20th century, often with patriotic themes. Vintage dexterity games made by the Germans were usually housed in tinplate frames – these were less expensive and easier to produce than paper-covered wooden boxes.
An example of a paper-covered wooden box is likely to be older and more valuable. Printed or embossed paper coverings are of particular interest, and they often contain finely printed graphic cards. Check the number of colours used and the details in the themes, as well as moving features – older games tend to have better quality.
It is important to consider both the value and the desirability of the theme itself. Most themes revolve around the home, farmyard animals, and the circus. Between £3 and £15 can be spent on a game from 1910-1930, metal-framed, with one of these themes. Rarer themes are more expensive because they are harder to find. Similar games from the same period featuring a motorist in an early motorcar might fetch around $30-40. Collectors of dexterity games and automobilia will be interested in this, causing the price to rise.
Advertising themes and values depend on a brand’s popularity. You should look for games where the brand is prominently displayed or where the style of the day is displayed, such as Art Deco. Although the artwork can often date a game, you should also look for any additional markings. ‘Germany’ indicates a date between 1910-1930, and ‘Made in US Zone Germany’ indicates that the game was made during the post war occupation in the late 1940s to early 1950s.
Generally, games are only marked with the country, but some are also marked with the maker. R Journet’s games are often marked with ‘RJ’. Founded in 1878 in Paddington, London, Robert Journet opened his first toy shop. His father made high quality paper covered wood framed games during the 1890s. The US became a major market after they exhibited at international trade fairs. Bright yellow paper covered the frames, but embossed, gilded, and red papers were also used. Bright, well-printed cards were inside.
Collectors value condition as dexterity games are meant to be played with. Paper coverings that are stained, torn or damaged can reduce value by half or more, whereas mint condition, brightly coloured examples can double it. Tinplate framed examples can easily be repaired if their glass is cracked. If the glass is missing, balls or other components have been lost, or the artwork has been damaged, be careful. Many backs contain small mirrors, if these are undamaged, they will add to the value.
The best dexterity games can be found at antique toys and games dealers.