Scarce Kamar J.F.K. & Rocking Chair, 1963, in the original box. Doll and rocking chair measure 11″ high. Mechanism inside the chair plays the song ‘Happy Days Are Here Again’ while simultaneously causing the chair to rock back and forth. Includes the original tag and the original miniature newspaper for Kennedy to read while he relaxes. In fine condition, with mechanics a bit stiff but operational and some toning and creasing to box, as well as one side separation to cover. A 1993 article in the Los Angeles Times tells the interesting history of the doll. In mid-1963, The Kamar company sent one of the very first toys to the White House and received a friendly response, but was soon after contacted by administration officials demanding that the doll be removed from the market. The stated reason was that the dolls were ‘a violation of the president's policy,’ but it has been speculated that the true reason was that the rocking chair would evoke the softly spoken rumors of the president's health problems (since proved to be legitimate), and any such publicity would be unwelcome in the upcoming reelection campaign. Whether due to this pressure or emotions in the wake of the assassination later that year, the company decapitated the remaining stock, destroyed the heads, and replaced them with those of the Playboy rabbit. RR Auction COA.
