Chris - using this thread to ask for some information on the Maroon Vanguard which is not listed in Schiffer/Force, but mentioned in the Dinky Toy Compendium section of Richardson's Dinky Toys & Modelled Miniatures [
Please Note I am NOT questioning the authenticity of the model, just asking for your comments as you have more knowledge on the subject than I
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1. This casting appears to be the second type with "spatts" over the rear wheels (noted in the Compendium as type 3 casting as it has the line across the boot). However the Compendium also states the Maroon version should have type 1 casting with open rear wheels and separate tinplate clip to hold the axle in place. Now I can clearly see this model has not been tampered with (the paint is clearly visible inside the model and shows typical spray patterns, the hub colour can be seen under the two "disfigured" rear tyres, and the rivets are untouched on the base which has the type 2 axle tabs incorporated) so I'm assuming the Compendium is wrong in assigning it only as a type one casting. What I'm thinking is that it might have been produced much later in the process than at first thought, given the type 3 casting with line on the boot (which Richardson mentions as being not a casting modification but a result of wear and tear on the die [page 134]). Have you ever seen a Maroon type 1 or type 2 casting?
2. I cannot find anything other than these references to the Maroon version in any of my Dinky reference books. Do you know/have any further information on its history?
Ian