Corgi Toys

In July of 1956 Corgi Toys were introduced to the UK toy market - a new and exciting addition to the die-cast range already available. It did not take long for the range to be sold in large numbers, not only in the UK, but throughout the world. Since 1956, Corgi have become an iconic and widely recognised brand for some of their most popular models, enabling Corgi Toys to become incredibly sought after collectors items. 

Corgi are well known for their model cars; Their model replicas of cars featured in popular television shows and films, mainly from the 1960s/70s are particularly popular. These include models such as the Batmobile, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and one of the most recognised of all time, James Bond’s Aston Martin DB5 which to this day is still the most popular toy car ever produced.

Corgi Toys also produced many other model vehicles such as military vehicles – Bloodhound Guided Missile and Launch Pad (1108), Agricultural vehicle models - 64 Forward Control Jeep, complete with farmhand figure and 7 sacks (1965-1969), Commercial vehicle models – 452 Commer Dropside Lorry (1956-1963), Emergency vehicle models – 437 Superior Ambulance on Cadillac Chassis, Competition models – 151A Lotus XI, Circus vehicle models – The Chipperfield’s Circus Crane Truck (1121), Corgi Major Toys – 1142 Holmes Wrecker Recovery Vehicle, Corgi Classics – an open 1915 Ford Model T coloured black (9011). From the growing interest and popularity of Corgi, they branched into the production of Corgi Kits, Corgi Cargoes, Accessories and Catalogues in the early 1960’s - Issuing a series of plastic kits of building and street furniture which conveniently clip-together, adding further play value to their range of model vehicles.

From the success of such additions as the Batley Leofric Garage (601) with opening garage door in May 1960 followed by two street lamps (606), Corgi evolved their annual catalogue, produced to promote their range, from a single small fold-out sheet to a colour 48 page catalogue, which are now collectable items in their own right. Unlike competitors, Corgi Toys were always supplied in individual boxes which featured the model inside illustrated on the design of the box. The design evolved over time from the ‘window box’, to the box with the angled inner plinth so that the model sat at an angle towards the front of the box, to the box introduced in January 1981, with a changed colour scheme of black/yellow/red.

Corgi toys are evocative of the period in which they were produced, allowing them to be much loved by many and a great collectors item. Over the years we have realised great prices at auction for many Corgi models. If you have a collection of Corgi models or just one item and you wish to have them valued, then do not hesitate to contact us.