A limited edition range of special die-cast models is being released by Corgi Toys to mark its 60th birthday.
Among the 2016 anniversary range are a new Austin Mini MkI Cooper S, Ford Escort MkI Mexico, Morris Minor 1000, and Rover P6 3500 VIP (above). The new model cars cost £14.99 each.
The 60th anniversary collection also includes some interesting aircraft, old and new double-decker buses and an Eddie Stobart Volvo FH with curtain-side trailer.
Launched in June 1956, the first Corgi Toys featured British-built saloons of the period including the Austin Cambridge, Ford Consul, Hillman Husky, Morris Cowley, Riley Pathfinder, Rover 90 and Vauxhall Velox. And the models sold for a mere 3/- (15p) each.
When introduced, Corgi Toys were seen as superior to existing die-cast model vehicles as they featured transparent plastic windows, becoming known as
‘the ones with windows’. In its first year of trading, Corgi sold 2.75 million model cars.
The company won The Queen’s Award to Industry and the National Association of Toy Retailers’ Highest Standards Award in 1966.