BACKGROUND: The Frank Hornby Firm, that was best known for their electric trains, began to make scale models named Modeled Miniatures, as accessories for their train platforms. These models were made in 1:43 scale to match the scale of their train sets. In 1934 the name was changed to Dinky Toys and they were made both in England and in France. Production was halted during WW2 and the first post war Dinky Toy produced was a Jeep. In 1954 the British change their numbering from a two digit plus letter code to a three digit code with the 600 series dedicated to military vehicles. Early post war Dinky Toys had metal hubs with smooth rubber tires, in the mid 50's treaded tires were introduced and by 1972 plastic tire were being used.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: An olive green alloy cast replica of an Alvis Saracen six-wheeled armoured vehicle, that entered production in 1952 to replace the M-3 half track. The model consists of a main body, a six wheel undercarriage and a movable turret. There is an unknown divisional marking, to the front and back, which is a square split diagonally from top right to bottom left, red on top and yellow on bottom. The cast alloy hubs with smooth rubber tires (which indicate an early production model) are all present although two have split and one has been replaced with a newer treaded design. Embossed to the bottom is "Dinky Toys", "Armoured Personnel Carrier", "Made in England", "Meccano Ltd" and the model number, partially obscured by the rear axle, "676". The model is in good condition with some minor paint wear to the edges and some dust buildup to its recesses. Of Note: This model is listed in a 1950's U.S. distributors catalogue for $1.25.

GRADE****                             PRICE $40.00