Dinky Toys Model cars - Collection in Stock

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Illustration Voitures Rétros Vintage France

Dive into the little-known history of these model cars that revolutionized the toy industry and marked the childhoods of generations of collectors.

Did You Know? Anecdotes and Curiosities about our Miniatures

What is the origin of the name 'Dinky Toys'?

The name 'Dinky' comes from the Scottish expression meaning 'small' or 'cute'. Dinky Toys were created in 1933 by the British company Meccano Ltd, headed by Frank Hornby, as a model car complement to Hornby electric trains.

Why are Dinky Toys from the 1950s and 1960s so sought after today?

This period represents the golden age of Dinky Toys, with exceptional manufacturing quality and fine details. In addition, many of these models were lost or damaged by children, making examples in good condition very rare and valuable to collectors.

What is the difference between English and French Dinky Toys?

French Dinky Toys, produced from 1937 in the Bobigny factory, are distinguished by their often brighter colors and slightly different finishes. They generally bear the words 'Dinky Toys - Meccano France' on their base, unlike the English models marked 'Meccano Ltd'.

How to identify an authentic Dinky Toys from a reproduction?

Genuine Dinky Toys have a distinctive weight due to the zamac alloy used, precise markings under the base with the reference number, and a natural patina. Reproductions are often lighter, with less fine details and overly bright colors that do not match the period hues.

What is the rarest and most expensive Dinky Toys model ever sold?

The 1966 Dinky Toys #23h Ferrari 275 GTB prototype is considered one of the rarest, with only a few examples known to exist. In 2019, one model sold at auction for over €30,000, making it one of the brand's most expensive models.