Some vintage toys do not need a price tag to make an impression. @found.n.fabled shared a clip of a Mickey Mouse wind up toy that waddles across the floor while playing a tune many of us learned as kids.

According to the creator, the toy was made by Illco and dates back to around the 1970s. The creator says they found him at the markets recently and could not resist bringing him home. Wind him up, and he plays Do Your Ears Hang Low while waddling around. The creator calls him absolutely adorable and admits he is a bit rusty, but says that is part of the charm.

The clip itself is music only, so the caption carries all the details we have on the toy.

The Comment Section Weighs In

Not everyone was won over. One commenter pointed out that the red paint smeared on his gloves is not helping him. Another said they had found the original version of this toy without googly eyes and thinks the last owner added them, adding that he looks even more creepy without. A couple of other viewers simply said they find him creepy.

The googly eye question is a fun one. These are viewers’ opinions, not confirmed facts, but it is a good example of why collectors look closely at small details on old toys.

What to Look for in a Vintage Wind Up Toy

If you spot one at a market or thrift store, here are some things many collectors check:

• Does the mechanism work? Gently wind it and see whether it moves. Never force a stiff key.
• Original paint. Touch ups and smears, like the red on the gloves here, can be signs of later repair.
• Eyes and small parts. Replaced or added pieces may affect how collectors see a toy.
• Rust. Light surface rust is common on older metal parts, but heavy rust can mean deeper trouble.
• Maker marks. Many toys carry a company name or markings on the body or underside.

For care, a soft dry cloth is generally the safest start. Harsh cleaners can lift old paint, and oiling a mechanism is something many collectors approach cautiously. As for value, condition, originality and demand all play a part, and it is best to compare similar sold listings rather than rely on a guess.

Rusty, repainted or just a little strange, a toy that makes you hum a childhood song is already doing its job.