Ben’s Vintage Toy Museum in Penang houses some of the rarest toy collections. I don’t even recognize most of these toys because they are way older than me. My time of toys were barbie dolls, Care Bears, Hello Kitty and Doraemon, which are “too modern” to be exhibited. The collection started off with Ben’s father, whom traveled around the world frequently, bringing back all sorts of antique toys. The collection grew even bigger with Ben because Ben continued his father’s passion for antique toys.
When we first went in to the museum, it was dark and gloomy because we were the only ones there and the lights were not switched on. When the staff switched on the lights for us, it was like abacadabra; the toys seemed to be alive again, illuminated through the cupboards.
The collection spans through the century with toys such as tin robots mostly made by Japanese companies in 1860 – 1980;
space toys made in the 1940’s to 1970’s;
toy ships (this one was made in the 1950’s) ;
coin boxes which were made in between 1880 and 1960;
tin toys first made in mid 19th century ;
die-cast toys which were first made in the early 20th century ;
battery-powered toys which looked a bit eerie to me ;
and game boys. Aha. Finally something that I was familiar with !
Ah ! And marbles ! I know you !
The upstairs section exhibits board games and kids vehicles.
Lots and lots of kids vehicles; such as scooters, bicycles, tricycles, and rocking horses.
Some of the pieces do look extremely worn, weathered and rusty – some might even see them as junk. But one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. These pieces are in fact invaluable because there aren’t much of these left.
The oldest piece in the museum is the Victorian era tricycle horse made in 1800’s in England. That’s like 215 years old and still looking good.
If you love rare and collectibles, I think you will enjoy Ben’s Vintage Toy Museum in Penang 🙂
More Info :
Ben’s Vintage Toy Museum, Penang Facebook Page
Address : 55 Lebu Aceh, Penang.
Opening Hours : Tuesday to Thursday, Saturday & Sunday 10 am – 6 pm ; Friday 3 pm – 6 pm.
Entrance Fee : RM 6 for adults; RM 3 for kids.
This place is amazing! I really do love old things. I’ll add it to my list of Penang must-sees.
I only began to appreciate old things when my husband lured me into it. lol !