Toy Collection
Regular Wheels 1 - 75 Series
1 - 10
The 1 - 75 Series was launched in 1953, following on the success of the model of Queen Elizabeth II's coronation coach. The Matchbox name was a brand name of the company Lesney Products founded in 1947 by Leslie and Rodney Smith. The 2 men, not related combined their names to create the Lesney brand. Jack Odell became a co-owner shortly afterwards. Examples of their early models can be seen in the Early Lesney section on this site. The next step in the pre-Matchbox story was when Jack Odell designed a scaled down version of the early Lesney roller for his daughter to take to school in a matchbox. This became the first of the 1 - 75 miniature range that extended to 1969. These were smaller than the early, larger models and priced at 1s. 6d. These were very popular and the larger, early models were soon phased out as production began on what to become the successful 1-75 series. The models were sold in replica matchboxes giving rise to the name of the series. For more information on the Lesney/Matchbox 1 - 75 series visit the sites shown on the Links section on the Home page.
I have produced a hard copy catalogue of many of the 1 - 75 variations, listing over 1,800 variations with 1,200+ photos
After requests from NZ Collectors, I have produced an updated catalogue to include the other model ranges such as Accessories, Major Pack & Kingsize with NZ$ valuations and with rare & HTF models colour highlighted.
For information on the catalogue, feedback and purchase details click here: 1-75 Series Variations Catalogue
I appreciate any feedback, comments and/or questions so feel free to email me tractorboy@xtra.co.nz
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Box variations in brackets (B1), (E3) etc.
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