Check out what’s the most expensive toy these days. Thanks to the James D. Julia Toy, Doll and Advertising auction, this Althof Bergmann Santa Sleigh fetched a whopping $161,000.

The toy’s considered as “the rarest and most important of all early-American tin toys.” Unlike Santa’s typical depiction, the toy features goats pulling the sleigh instead of the now-typical reindeer.

The toy is the most expensive toy sold in the past three years and is the most expensive American tin toy in an auction in the past 15 years.

Lehman Brothers is no more but their art collection is about to go on the auction block.   Lehman’s was noted for their amazing art collection and they had some of the most renowned artists lining their hallways and several hundred pieces

Lehman Brothers art collection goes to auction.

will be finding new homes on 1 November 09.

The auction showcases modern and contemporary art with works by Andy Warhol, Alexander Calder, David Hockney, Roy Lichtenstein and others. The art being sold is estimated to be in the $500,000 to $750,000 range. Proceeds will go towards any creditors.

If contemporary art isn’t your fancy, on 6 December 09, Freeman‘s will sell off 30 lots of European fine paintings from the Lehman collection.

Additionally, another 500+ lots will go to auction on 12 February 2010.

~~ Raine Devries