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Check out this link

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hystQuOIrks

O.M.G

I was there and watched this sale, if you stop at 1.32 you can see forum member Marcel in the blue tee shirt.

I have seen that Dumper in person and actually have held it. That will probably remain the highlight of my 50
+ year involvement with Lesney Toys. I am also echoing the opinion that it is one of the most collectible toys in existence! Nick got to feel the experience at that auction, and I am sure it will always live with him. I am very glad it was caught in a video, so we all can be just a bit jealous.......kwakers

I have viewed the gentleman in the blue shirt's movements (Matchbox Marcel), and I believe the auctioneer missed his higher bid and thought Marcel was simply scratching his nose! What a shame the auctioneer missed that......LOL kwakers

A great video and landmark event !
The collector from Japan who sold the model was at the annual MB "Gathering" in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA for the past two events the last 2 years. A very nice gentleman indeed and an outstanding ambassador for Matchbox collectors/hobbyists !

Bill

Any ideas who bought this record prototype?
At the end of the news report they mention that the "anonymous bidder was a German".
Could it be that Harvey/ Hardy bought this piece of history too?
Let's hope it went to a good home.
Kurt

Hardy got the proposed large scale Showmans engine wooden buck and diecast wheels etc but he did not get the large Dumper truck, I believe that went to live in New York.

Here's a picture I took during the viewing before the auction started.



It still remains a mystery in which collection the model finally ended up.....
Kay

Takyo will not be at the Gathering in 2014 but he and his wife will be back in 2015. This model is stunning.

And such a pity there is only one survivor,