Toys manufactured by Ernst Plank, Germany

Ernst Plank was a German toy manufacturer founded in 1866 in Nuremberg, Germany. The company was named after its founder, Ernst Plank, who was a skilled tinsmith and mechanic. He initially focused on producing toy steam engines and magic lanterns. His steam engines were some of the most realistic and complex on the market, and they were quickly popular with children of all ages. Plank also produced a wide range of magic lanterns, which were popular for both entertainment and educational purposes.

In the late 19th century, Plank began to produce toy trains. His trains were also highly realistic and detailed, and they quickly became some of the most popular toy trains on the market. Plank also produced a wide range of other toys, including toy soldiers, toy animals, and toy cars. Plank's toys were known for their high quality and their innovative designs. The company was one of more... the first to use lithography to decorate its toys, and it also pioneered the use of mass production techniques.

The company’s toys were exported all over the world, and the company became one of the leading toy manufacturers in the world. However, the company suffered during the economic crisis of the 1920s, and it lost much of its market share. In 1934, Plank was sold to the Schaller brothers, who focused on producing optical equipment. The company continued to produce toy trains until 1935, but it eventually ceased production of all toys.

Ernst Plank toys are highly prized by collectors for their high quality, innovative designs, and historical significance. less...