Saddle up for a trip down memory lane
The Wonder Horse, a marvel of childhood imagination and engineering, galloped into American homes in the 1950s. Produced by various manufacturers over the years, including the actual Wonder Products Company and Hedstrom, these ride-on toys captured the hearts of children and parents alike.
Using simple mechanisms like coiled springs, they allowed kids to “ride” by rocking back and forth, bouncing up and down, creating an experience that felt both authentic and magical.
The marketing campaigns for Wonder Horses back in the day often featured rosy-cheeked kids in cowboy outfits (almost always boys), beaming as they rode their steeds. These toys were often suggested as being the ultimate Christmas or birthday gifts, which they really were for thousands of children.
The evolution of vintage rocking horses
Throughout the decades, the Wonder Horse saw several design changes. In the 1960s, makers introduced models with more realistic features, such as textured fur and detailed facial expressions.
The 1970s and ’80s saw the addition of sound mechanisms that mimicked horse neighs and galloping hooves. Yet, no matter the decade, the basic appeal remained unchanged: the simple joy of rocking and riding, often while donning a cowboy hat and pretending to be a Wild West hero.
The toys’ collectibility and cultural legacy
It’s not just nostalgia that made these classic Wonder Horses special. The design tapped into a timeless aspect of child’s play: the need for physical activity and the joy of imaginative role-playing, whether those adventures took place in a living room or a backyard.
Today, vintage Wonder Horses are coveted items for collectors, some fetching impressive prices at auctions, although more affordable versions can be found on sites like eBay.
These old ride-on toys also earned a place in museums, and have even appeared on move and TV show sets to help evoke the era they represent.
Whether as a favorite childhood memory, a collectible, or just a symbol of a bygone era, these fun horse toys have left a clear hoofprint on the American cultural landscape. Now, mosey on down and see dozens of vintage styles from the second half of the 20th century!
See a vintage Wonder Horse Deluxe (1954)
He can ride to Banbury Cross — or to meet the Sandman, on this faithful reproduction of a golden Palomino.
Wonder Horse DeLuxe is molded of tough plastic. Sturdy springs give realistic gaited action. Commended by Parents’ Magazine and is Toy Guidance Council “Educator — Approved.” For children 1 to 7 years. $29.95.
WONDER PRODUCTS COMPANY Collierville, Tenn.
Vintage ride-on horse toys from 1958
Ride Little Texas Buckaroos: Bronc spring-suspended hobby horse (1959)
What fun is in store for your favorite little buckaroos when they ride the Texas Bronc. This spring-suspended hobby horse is built to last. Plywood sides… cadmium plated springs that won’t stretch or break. Will support 200-lbs. Corral this colt now by putting in layaway for Christmas.
The history of the Wonder Horse toys (1956)
Published in the Clarion-Ledger (Jackson, Mississippi) January 29, 1956
Made In Southland, toy has become nation’s leader
A toy invented and manufactured in the Mid-South has, in a few short years, become the nation’s leader in the hobby horse field. The patented spring-suspended Wonder Horse was invented by William Baltz, a farmer of Pocahontas, Arkansas, who got the idea from giving his children rides on his leg “horsey style.”
The original toy is now manufactured by Wonder Products Company, Collierville, Tennessee, in a complete line designed for age groups 1 to 7, and offering a model for every price range.
The Wonder Horse is manufactured in four models. The Deluxe, with either metal or wood base sells for $29.95. The newest member of The Wonder Horse family is The Wonder Mare, priced at $19.95. The Wonder Pony, designed especially for children 1 to 3 years of age is $10.95, and the all-time favorite, The Wonder Horse Regular is $14.95.
MORE: Vintage Hoppity Hop & Hoppity Horse toys were bouncing fun
The first three are handsome golden palominos, constructed of durable plastic. The Wonder Horse Regular is made of bright red wood. All are distinguished by patented Magic-Spring Action.
The Wonder Horse is a nationally-advertised product bearing the Parents’ Seal of Commendation and is Education Approved. It has been demonstrated on nationwide television programs many times and featured in numerous national magazines.
Wonder Products Company is headed by E J. Koller, a Memphis businessman, who came out of retirement in 1949 to take over the reins of the company, and developed it into a nationally-known organization.
Wonder-Horse ride-on spring toys: Get a horse. (1960s)
Get a Wonder Horse, and you’ve made your cowboy’s happiest dreams come true…
No batteries needed. Wonder Horses run for hours on the energy supplied by a few cookies! Youngsters stay quietly — and safely — amused for hours.
Safe as Daddy’s knee. A child who can sit up alone is perfectly safe in this Wonder “Shoo Fly Deluxe” rocker, equipped with safety strap and adjustable seatbelt. Polystyrene body is washable, won’t chip.
Easy to assemble. You can put any Wonder Horse together in a matter of minutes — and it will probably outlast the family car!
Here’s “Thunder”! Biggest horse on springs! Ride ’em, cowboy! (1966)
Next best thing to a real pony. He’s the biggest and best! Palomino coloring, carved-in lariat, sturdy steel and wood frame — even an authentically sculptured western saddle and stirrups. He’s 43″ high. 53″ long. Every buckaroo will love “Thunder.”
DON’T MISS: Vintage Hoppity Hop & Hoppity Horse toys were bouncing balls of fun
Wonder struck: Vintage ride-on horse toys (1967)
If you found yourself at the end of last January with nothing left of Christmas toys but the unpaid bills, then listen to our story…
Wonder Horse makes the world’s most popular toy horses. All 17 models (you see five of them [below]) promise instant joy on Christmas morning — and lasting year-round enjoyment.
In fact, every Horse carries as part of its equipage a guarantee which helps parents keep their Christmas promises to their children. But make sure it’s a real Wonder Horse! There are a herd of imitators, but only one genuine Wonder Horse line.
Wonder Horse – Wonder Products Co, Collierville, Tennessee
Shoo-Fly Deluxe rocking horse (1960s)
Vintage 60s ride-on horse toys (1967)
Wonder Cheyenne play horse (1960s)
Wonder Coaster toddler ride-on toy with wheels (1960s)
Wonder Pony ride-on toy (1960s)
Mustang spring horse toy (1960s)
Silver, golden stallion & Thunder King bouncing horse toys (1976)
38-inch Silver, the Lone Ranger’s famous horse. Polyethylene, with molded-in West-ern-style saddle and harness. Metal stirrups, Saddle height adjusts from 26 to 29Y, in. Steel spring suspension. Black tubular steel base.
36-inch Golden Stallion. Realistic mane and tall of soft nylon fastened into the rugged palomino-colored polyethylene body with spring clips and elastic bands, Brightly colored West-ern•style saddle. Molded-in saddle and harness, Brown plastic cross bar “corral” stand with steel spring suspension, Saddle height adjusts from 29 to 31 in. Horse is 36-In, long.
34-inch Thunder King Bouncing Horse. Golden palomino color, rugged polyethylene body with brown and black molded-in Western-style saddle, Brown tubular steel frame durable steel spring suspension, Saddle height 26 in.
Vintage ride-on spring horse toys from the 1980s
Mount up, partners, and ride with the best in the West on our hobby horses.
All have tubular steel bases and durable plastic bodies for hours of fun. Removable saddle bags hold sound box.
Thunder King, our largest steed, makes galloping noises like a real horse, plus talks, whinnies and snorts. — Talking Cheyenne says 5 different phrases and whinnies.
MORE: So long, tricycles, the Big Wheel’s here now: Kids loved these retro ride-on toys
Old Steeple Chaser horse ride-on (from the 1980s)
Vintage ’80s Walk-R-Ride changes from walker to pony (for toddlers)
Remove casters and seat on walker to make spring horse – Colored rings add fun
“Ride ’em, cowboy” (1980s)
Talking colt says 6 phrases (See more vintage talking toys here!)
Electronic Clip-Clop horse toy (1980s)
ALSO SEE: Remember vintage coin-operated rides? Horses, spaceships, boats & more from the ’50s
36 Responses
i have aquired a 1965 spring mustang rocking horse and ws wondering what todays value might be
thank you
what shape is it in? where are you located? any chance to see it?
joellen1902@google.com
I have the model number 80 and its chest decal very good condition. The horse is in perfect condition and its springs and metal frame. Almost everything perfect and original. I think it is the model of the year between 1960 and 1966. It’s the Wonder flyer. What sale price? Do you know of any other page to investigate more about this horse? Thanks a lot
i have a black wonder hores, off white mane & tail, silver hooves, light royal blue saddle, has WH brand on one hip. it is a carousel horse, not a rocking horse. the head tail & legs are not tucked up against its body (there is space between). the only holes in it are in the top of the saddle & directly below in the belly. I’ve never seen another one like it. You have any idea of its age or potential value? there is only the horse, no pole or mechanical attachments.
Hello,
First, I am Dutch, so my english is not very good, excuse me for that..
I just have bought the “mustang wonder horse”, but I just noticed that I have only the horse with the wooden sticks throug the legs and knees, and the iron footsteps?
Can I buy the rest anywere? I hope somewere in the Netherlands?
Friendly greetings,
Anita
I have a Red Coat Wonder Horse Deluxe, In very good condition, What is it worth?? Can’t find it anywhere,
Thanks Donn
Hello,
I had a Wonder Horse that I bought over 19/20 years ago and I am wondering what it would be worth. Since we have recently moved and it is missing. The Moving Company is responsible to replace or pay at cost value and since I havent seen one like it I was hoping you could help with a Value.
Information; Gabby Gallop 1991 Wonder Products, Inc. Bossier City, LA. Made in the USA. Sound effects, Holsters for feet, Strap for bite, in excellent cond.
The frame measurments are 27.5 long x 23 wide. Measurments are from where the springs would connect to hang the horse. The only reason I have those measurements is because, that is all I have left form my Rocking Horse.
I do have pictures of it. Thank goodness our youngest ask me to do.
I have s wonder horse that I had as a child I am now 63 years old. I am guessing my parents got it when I was two or three years old . I has black sleigh like runners with springs . It is all wooden and has s wooden seat with s plastic safety strap I wonder how much this horse might be worth now. It has its original paint on both sides.
Where can one get information about Westpoint Glow Charge rocking horse. Would like history of year it was made I have acquire one in very excellent condition
I’m looking for the Frame and parts for a Battle Cat Spring Ride on made by Wonder, is there somewhere I can find those type of parts
I have a The Wonder Mare, model 4, DES 167464. where can I find more information on this model It was a present to a nephew for Christmas from an uncle of his don’t know what year. just interested.
I,too, have one of these and can’t find anything about it. Can you share what you have found?
I have a wonder horse Cheynne that is missing one plastic handle for the grip. Is there any where I could find replacement parts?
hi I have a wonder horse Cyclone never seen 1 similar 1959?
Hello. I have a red wonder horse. The horse is faded but otherwise it is in good shape. I am 59 and I figure it is about 57 years old now. It has all the original parts and bounces and rocks like new.
I didn’t know if anyone collects them now and how much it is worth.
Back in 2003, I met an older gentleman online, who collected hobby spring horses. Him and I met in what was “then”, online chat forums. Yahoo chat relays.
I have a wonder horse the body is orange /red the frame is a turquoise it has metal strups it’s in great shape what would it be worth and don’t know the year
I have a wonder horse from 1984 which my children used now my grandson would like to use it. We have all the parts and have put it together except for the double hook for the spring to the frame. How does that part get put together? After 35 years I just don’t remember.
You can get metal “s” hooks to use instead. I saw another one online that someone else has, who put s hooks on theirs.
Cleaning out my dad’s attic, I found a Wonderline Inc spring rocking horse. It has you tag on the bottom……”Wonderline Inc, Bossier City, LA/#7265 872370″. It also has a “21W” on the bottom that is backwards as though it was stamped from the inside. It has a plastic rein and plastic stirrups. Can you tell me more about this horse and how much it would be worth today? It appears to be in pristine shape. Thank you!
I have a wonder horse that my parents bought for me as a Little girl. I’m 62 this month and I have a granddaughter that I would like to hand it down to. I need a saddle for it. Does anyone know where I can find a saddle?
I have a radio flyer Liberty spring horse can someone tell me the value pls I will enclose a pic of allowed
I’m looking for replacement grips/handles. Any info?
You could make a replacement wooden handle for your horse. You can buy wooden dowel rods at Home Depot or Lowes.
And then put bicycle handles on the wood.
I’m looking to purchase a wonderhorse in good condition for my two boys
I have a Red Coat Wonder Horse Deluxe in Excellent condition. Cannot find another one that is red in color. Wondering what is the value on this 1954
I have the model number 80 and its chest decal very good condition. The horse is in perfect condition and its springs and metal frame. Almost everything perfect and original. I think it is the model of the year between 1960 and 1966. It’s the Wonder flyer. What sale price? Do you know of any other page to investigate more about this horse? Thanks a lot
You could make a replacement wooden handle for your horse. You can buy wooden dowel rods at Home Depot or Lowes.
I have an battery operated Wonder Horse “Clip Clop” from the 1980’s in excellent condition and wanted to know what it is worth today?
Hello! I have been trying to track down my childhood spring rocking horse – probably made in the late 1960s. I have some photos. I think she was a Wonder Cheyenne, but am not 100% certain. She had a blue ribbon on her neck and for some reason I think her name was Penney. This horse meant so much to me. My grandfather gave her away without me knowing and ever since I have looked everywhere for “Penney”. I’m wondering if you have ever heard of a wonder horse with a blue award type ribbon on it. She was tan with a white tail. I appreciate any help. Thank you so much!
https://www.ebay.com/itm/154364677455?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=Z3HMY1zEROu&sssrc=2349624&ssuid=&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
This Wonder Horse on EBay has a blue ribbon on her neck. I hope you find your Penney ❤️
Hi, you Penny was the model Wonder Mare by the Wonder Horse Company. I hope you find another, FB market place always has a lot of spring horses for sale…also check out the Facebook page Spring and Rocking Horse lovers.. good luck!
In the 1970’s my dad gave my kids a Wonder Horse product, a blue and white airplane, with a wide wing span, which they sat on and could rock and spin it around. I have never seen another; we gave it to a family when our kids outgrew it. Does anyone remember this large toy or have a photo of it?
I have a Lone Ranger horse from Wonder new in the box with the hat, mask and scarf never worn. Anyone know what Silver is worth.
I (think I) had a spring horse when I was very young, and many of my friends had them as well. They were also a staple of day care centers, Sunday school classrooms, and any other indoor place where young children played. It’s a shame they went away.