Have you ever stumbled across a vintage diecast model that instantly transports you back in time?
One of Bazza’s latest posts did just that for me, sparking memories of a brilliant promotional model from the seventies.
It got me thinking about the fascinating world of promotional toys – and how they’ve shaped our hobby over the years.
Today, promotional models are everywhere, with collectors and enthusiasts debating the merits of Code 1, Code 2, Code 3 and beyond. These categories help us make sense of a market bursting with variety, but it wasn’t always this way. When I first started my collection, promotional diecasts were practically unheard of – a rare treat that added real excitement to the hunt.
My very first promotional toy memory? The legendary Corgi Toys Double Decker Routemaster Bus! Picture this: a young me in the late seventies, pestering mum and dad to buy stacks of chocolate bars (never mind the taste) just so I could send off the wrappers for a shiny new diecast bus. That clever bit of marketing opened my eyes to a secret world of promotional treasures, and I soon realised diecast brands had been using these tactics for decades.
As my collection grew, I became hooked on the thrill of finding the elusive promotional models that every diehard collector dreams of. Some of these gems include:
- Corgi Co-Op set
- Corgi Hammonds Bedford
- Dinky Joseph Mason Paints Mini Van
- Dinky Bentalls Van
- Dinky Monks & Crane Bedford Van
- Matchbox Douglas Tipper (with mono label)
- Matchbox Models of Yesteryear Ford Model T Van – Blue ‘Hoover’ Van
- Matchbox Guy Removal Van Beales Bealesons
- …and many, many more!
I only managed to find a couple from this list of many – but one promotional model that holds a special place in my heart is the Dinky Toys 945 AEC Lucas Oil Tanker. Released in 1977, this short-lived green beauty was offered exclusively to Lucas Oil dealers, packaged in a clear bubble with a rather flimsy card base. Why do I love it so much? Because it was the first promotional model my dad and I ever tracked down together – a memory I’ll always treasure.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just dipping your toes into the world of diecast, the thrill of discovering rare promotional models never gets old. Which ones are on your wish list? Share your stories and let’s celebrate the history, nostalgia and sheer fun of toy collecting!
