German Composition Toy Soldier "Prone Firing Rifle”, Cap Firing Mechanism, circa 1930's. 4 1/2”” long. Based on the superb detailing and modeling, this example is probably made by LINEOL. Composition toy soldiers are kaolin, saw dust and hide glue paste over a wire armature, or in this case, a cap firing mechanism, which is formed in molds and baked. They were often farmed out as piece work to Haus Fraus to be hand painted to strict quality standards. These composition “Action Figures” are tough to find in decent condition. The figure is molded over a cap firing mechanism which include the soldier’s hollow rifle barrel, which when firing a cap, would emit a puff of smoke. The cap firing mechanism is fully functioning. To fire, pull back the metal plate until it clicks, add a cap to the front of the mechanism and it is armed and ready. To fire, set on a surface, simply push down on the figure’s back, and the mechanism releases and slides forward, setting off the cap. This figure is near excellent, with a minor stress crack at the soldier’s trigger hand. Great modeling and a rare “action figure” pose. Price: $85.00 (ref. C-127)