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Red body with 10 x 2 mm (THIN) wheels:

Superb model David and one I have yet to see.
Jason

Amazing find -could it be a pre-pro or sales sample?? Perhaps David can take a closer look into the highlighted area - has ?? 72 as in 1972 been scratched into the baseplate?? This car HAS a gas tank flap so its NOT the earliest red issues which lacked them. However this baseplate DOES say No.55 so these are in fact the correct most common size wheels fitted to this baseplate so its genuine old stock. ALL No.59 or 73 baseplates carried wide wheels.

David, What a great find!!

I think Mick might be onto something as it certainly looks like something is scratched into the base.

Well, isn't that interesting. I never noticed it had the earlier baseplate. After looking at this more, the wheels are also solid (no. J31, J10, J6, J31) which seems anachronistic. Not sure what to make of the light scratches near the rear axle. They do not look like much in hand but I will provide some other photos. The red is color slightly brighter and more intense than my other red Mercury Wagons.

This model was a gift to me when I went to visit a fellow collector and I never looked at it with much scrutiny. He owns several other early SF prepro's which I believe came to the States via the Lesney contacts made by Don (of the Hobby shop) who produced the Herbie vehicles. Based on your observations, I am inclined to think this is likely a prepro model as well and not a production issue. Unfortunately, now I feel the proper thing to do is to see if he wants the model back!

-David

What we could be looking at is glue residue on that baseplate where a plastic label impressed with ?? 72 was fitted but later removed -could be a collector label rather than a Lesney item however this is certainly a 1970 baseplate common on #55 police sedan or early lime #73 wagons fitted with the correct factory style rivits to a 1972 final version body with gas tank flap back on the tooling

Chances are good that your friend will insist you keep the model Vetrad. I have identified tough variations at our local Toy Show before I have bought them from dealers who are friends of mine selling 'spares', and most go back in the Seller's private stock and are added to their collections. This is the conduct that is 'normal' and 'honest' with friends. If the Seller/ donor in your case is not a friend, we just accept the model or just pay for it and keep our mouth shut about it. You are of good character to be concerned over your friend's gift to you. That kind of concern is very refreshing to hear anywhere today. Thanks Dave! Dick