The '50s Tin Robot That Fetched Less Than You'd Think On American Pickers

Fans of "American Pickers" had to go through a bit of an adjustment going into Season 23. For years, viewers were used to the cross-country adventures of Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz. The two had electric chemistry together, and throughout many seasons of the series, they visited nearly every state while purchasing numerous items along the way. They were interested in anything they thought they could turn a profit on, but nothing gold lasts forever.

In the summer of 2021, Fritz finally clarified how he would no longer be part of the show going forward. Fans were understandably upset, but the show persevered with Mike Wolfe going on adventures with his brother, Robbie. Everyone's reaction to this switch will differ, but there are still plenty of standout moments from the Wolfe brothers, including the time they got their hands on a vintage tin robot in the Season 23 episode, "Cadillac Man."

The episode will be of interest to anyone with a fascination with early 20th-century science-fiction. This particular robot came out during a time when everything from toys to vehicles took inspiration from the future. America had yet to land on the moon, so the idea of space exploration was still a novel concept. And this toy robot was likely played by some kid long ago who was interested in this bold, new future. 

The toy's definitely seen better days, but Wolfe knows a good find when he sees it. He tells the sellers that he could probably get between $75 and $100 for the condition it's in now, and he offers them $65 for the robot. The sellers suggest $75, and Wolfe goes for it. It may not be the most intense negotiation Wolfe has ever seen, but some viewers may be surprised at how low Wolfe managed to get the piece.

Earlier, Wolfe mentions how these toys were going for up to $500 just a few years prior. But it seems as though the bubble has burst. It goes to show the importance of striking while the iron's hot and knowing when precisely to sell.