Ready to Roll: 10 Rare Antique Pedal Tractors

By Farm Collector Staff
Published on August 1, 2008
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The rarest and hardest-to-find farm toy, a red “coffin” engine pedal tractor made by Eska in 1949.
The rarest and hardest-to-find farm toy, a red “coffin” engine pedal tractor made by Eska in 1949.
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The Oliver 1800 pedal tractor with keystone decal, restored to near-perfect condition.
The Oliver 1800 pedal tractor with keystone decal, restored to near-perfect condition.

Collectible antique pedal tractors are more than kid stuff. The oldest are more than 50 years old and were produced in small numbers. Most were used in heavy-duty applications and maintenance was poor. And yet, a prize condition toy pedal tractor today can sell for a heart-stopping price.

1. John Deere A with “coffin” engine. Manufactured by Eska Co., Dyersville, Iowa, this very rare, narrow-front antique pedal tractor is red with an open grille.

2. John Deere A with open grille. Same as above, but green and no “coffin” engine.

3. John Deere 730. Made in five narrow-front variations by Eska, the rarest of these pedal tractors is a narrow front end called the “small hole” variation.

4. Caterpillar D-4. Manufactured in 1949 by New London Metal Products, this 45-inch-long pedal tractor was battery-powered and had a blade. A gas-powered model is also hard to find.

5. Oliver 1800. Ertl made this pedal tractor with a keystone decal and solid grille.

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