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Milestone Auctions sells David Leitner's antique toy collection in international sale

market-auction · 2026-07-03

On May 30, Milestone Auctions, located in the Cleveland area, conducted the initial sale of antique toys from David Leitner's extensive collection amassed over five decades. The auction featured close to 650 items, such as vintage European wind-up toys, postwar Japanese robots and space-themed toys, along with rare motorcycle models, many still in their original packaging. Bidders primarily participated via the internet and phone, with co-owner Miles King observing a significant portion of bids originating from outside the United States, particularly from nations where the toys were produced. The international allure of the collection resulted in robust engagement from overseas bidders.

Key facts

  • Auction held on May 30
  • Milestone Auctions in metro Cleveland
  • First installment of David Leitner's antique toy collection
  • Nearly 650 toys offered
  • Included early European windups, postwar Japanese robots and space toys, rare motorcycle toys
  • Many toys retained original pictorial boxes
  • Internet and phone bidders were dominant
  • High percentage of bids from outside the US, especially from manufacturing countries

Entities

Institutions

  • Milestone Auctions

Locations

  • Cleveland
  • United States

Sources