Here's a RARE OPPORTUNITY to own an original Frank Marshall ventriloquial figure!

          Until Paul Winchell popularized the “Nosey” character in the 1950s, Frank Marshall’s number one selling character was the “Fresh Kid”. This is an absolutely beautiful example of the “Fresh Kid” as shown in Frank Marshall’s 1931 catalog.
          I would date this particular figure to the late 1930s, judging by the style of the hands and the original Marshall business card inside the head.

          The condition of this figure is simply remarkable. When I acquired it, I was amazed at the condition. It looked virtually unused! There was a tiny little paint rub on the nose, which is certainly not uncommon on figures of this era. The only issue at all with the figure was the leather underneath the chin. It was all present, but it was worn and discolored.
          I had Austin Phillips replace the leather. I believe Austin is the number one restorer of vintage figures today. He understands the value of maintaining as much originality as possible. Toward that end, he found the correct type of leather that Marshall used originally. He matched the original piece, he matched the original paint, and then, he actually managed to match the age patina of the rest of the head!

          I did not have Austin touch up the paint ding on the nose, because it is extremely minor and would be unnoticeable to an audience, but also because I believe a figure this age should show its age. I’m a little sad when I see a beautiful vintage figure that has been completely refurbished and updated to brand new. In my opinion, I believe the ideal restoration should bring the figure back to its original appearance, but age-appropriate. In other words, I want my restored figures to look like they were never used (or used very little), but rather have been in a case since they came out of the original workshop. I want them to show the patina of their age, but not the wear and tear of constant use.

          As I stated previously, the “Fresh Kid” model was Marshall’s most popular figure during the period this one was created. This is the large model, which measures approximately 40 inches tall. His moving mouth is wide and full and was designed for theater stages. He also has that amazing precision-fit jaw that Marshall was well-known for.  No wide gaps on either side of the jaw! The eyes are beautiful glass prosthetic eyes. The head stick features the "new" (at that time) lever control rather than the earlier ring on a string.

          The body is all original, including the original carved hands. He comes dressed as shown. The clothing appears to be early- to mid 1970s vintage and fits the figure perfectly.

          Marshall figures do come up from time to time, but rarely in this amazing condition. You can probably find one or two on eBay right now, but always remember to read the ads carefully. If you buy a completely restored/refurbished head with an aftermarket body, you shouldn’t expect to pay the same as what an all-original Marshall figure in very fine condition would cost...and yet, that's what you most often find on eBay. In fact, you'll often find fully refurbished (not restored) figures with after-market bodies and parts on eBay for MORE than the cost of a nice Marshall figure!

          This original Frank Marshall figure is not only a very fine collectible, but a workable figure, should you wish to use it. In addition, I believe you will find it to be a solid investment.  See the photo gallery below.  Should you want additional photos, just let me know...

       Please note – I offer the Dummycases.com professional cases. If you wish to purchase one at the same time as you purchase this figure, not only can the figure be shipped in it, but I will discount the price for the case. Please contact me for additional details.

          You must contact me before ordering this figure to let me know you’re interested in it. The $8.00 flat rate postage that covers most of the items on this site does NOT apply to this figure. If you will contact me with your shipping address, I can offer you several shipping options.

          The price for this exceptional example of a nearly-untouched 1930's-era Frank Marshall “Fresh Kid” is….

$3495.00   (plus actual shipping charge to your destination - See note below).

PLEASE NOTE - You MUST contact me BEFORE ordering to determine shipping options and rates.  The flat rate postage fee DOES NOT APPLY to this puppet.  Simply send me your shipping address and I'll get back to you with several shipping options and rates.  Once you decide how you'd like the order shipped, I can send a PayPal invoice directly to you (or we can work out other payment arrangements, if necessary).  Thank you!