18/01/2025
Occasionally I stumble across a real gem for reasons of scarcity, excellent condition or of particular interest. This Dinky Toy the streamlined fire engine raised my eyebrows and gave me a twitch of the shoulder.
Whilst the red version of this model is profusely abundant, being produced over a long period of time and in its day an extremely popular model. The model pictured in khaki green was amongst a very large military vehicle collection. Produced by Meccano solely for export to South Africa to represent the South African Military Defence Force along with a range of other models such as lorries, an ambulance and dispatch rider. This model produced between 1952 and 1954 has ridged hubs with smooth black tyres and a gloss black base plate. To complete it has the tin plate ladder and brass bell.
A very nice lightly play worn condition being very acceptable in view of its rare appearance on the streets. I can also dispel the belief of many that say these models were originally red and overpainted to green and sent to South Africa is simply not the case. Hope you enjoy.
