Early 20th century British Pelham Puppets

Pelham Puppets, originally named Wonky Toys Ltd., was founded in 1947 in Marlborough, England by Robert (Bob) Pelham. They originally made small wooden toys and marionettes, but acquired the rights to make Disney character puppets in 1953.

Pinocchio was one of the most popular characters. There were also many versions of Mickey Mouse made over the years, making examples comparatively common as well.

A fire in 1961 resulted in the factory being rebuilt and at the same time the product range was reorganised. Some old lines were dropped and new ranges introduced.

Bob Pelham died in 1980, and business was continued by his wife until 1985 when it was sold. After several more ownership changes, the company went into liquidation in 1993.

The company was revived by a former employee in 2008, and it now produces a number of the old designs as well as new creations.

Early puppets generally more... tend to be rarer and more desirable, but some of the later puppets are the rarest as fewer were made. Condition is critical as many were produced, collectors will only pay high prices for exceptionally rare characters or for those in the best condition, preferably with a box. less...