The Arctic Explorer Playset -- Marx #3702 -- was introduced in 1958 and had a two-year run, according to Plastic Figure and Playset Collector (PFPC) magazine, Issue 4.  Notably, Alaska became the 49th state in 1959.  The article on Marx Alaskan playsets reports that the Arctic Explorer set included 16 Eskimo and 16 explorer figures, a tin lithographed quonset hut, four igloos, four dog sleds with two-dog harnesses, two kayaks, various arctic animals, and miscellaneous small accessories.

Marx also produced in 1958 the related IGY Arctic Satellite Base (see the Space Explorations Accessories page of this web site).  The following year, the company released the Alaska Frontier playset (see the Wild West section), and the DEW Defense Line Arctic Satellite Base.  The two satellite bases are generally referred to by collectors as the IGY (International Geophysical Year) set and the DEW set (Defense Early Warning Line).

These sets are extensively covered with excellent photographs in the more recent Playset Magazine, Issue 32.  However, most information in the article is on the IGY and DEW sets.  

Box for Arctic Explorer Playset Photo Courtesy of veteran seller/collector Rick Eber

Figures and Accessories



Building

The set includes the standard Marx quonset hut, which is also used in Construction playsets.  Here it is labeled Research Laboratory.  The back side of the building is enclosed, and the inside is not lithographed.

Research Laboratory Quonset Hut Photo courtesy of veteran seller/collector Rick Eber

Small Accessories
 

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