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 a BL (Breech Loading) 5.5 inch Field Gun which first saw action in the Western Desert Campaign, 1942. This model consists of a carriage with a spread able tow bar, a tilting barrel and two cast alloy hub wheels with treaded rubber tires (which indicates mid to late 50's production). Embossed to the bottom of the carriage and tow bar arms is "5.5 Medium Gun", "Dinky Toys", "Meccano Ltd England" and the model number "692". The yellow colored cardboard box is about 5 5/16" by 1 7/8" square with "Dinky Toys" printed in red to the top, a picture of the model on either side with "Dinky Toys", "5.5 Medium Gun" and the model number "692". The model is in good condition with some minor paint wear and some dust to the recesses while the box is bent and soiled missing all the flaps but one and has a couple of small holes on one side. Of Note: This model is listed in a 1950's U.S. distributors catalogue for $1.00.

GRADE***                             PRICE $92.00 (Or Best Offer)