43a Hillman Minx

[Idris]

The NAMC’s “Catalog of all Series Matchbox Models” (second edition) does not contain any variations not already listed by Nick, and neither does the AIM's “1-75 Series Regular Wheels” catalogue (second printing, 1983), although both comment on light and dark KGPW being found on this model.
Stannard does not list any new variations either, but Houghton has two plausible additions to the table: 43a-9 is Nick's code 8 (blue-grey, 9.5 x 20 GPW, d/c, post 1, roof, trim 1) but with a gloss black baseplate, and 4a-11 is Nick's code 9 ((blue-grey, 9.5 x 20 GPW, d/c, post 1, roof, trim 2) also with a gloss black baseplate. If confirmed, each of these variations would simply slot in after the matt black baseplate variation already listed.Houghton also comments on the existence of light and dark KGPW.
U.K. Matchbox examined the model in Vol. 1, no. 11 (Jan. '78) p175 but does not list any new variations. However, Rob Newson does suggest that the rows of pips at the front and rear of the inside of the roof might represent an abortive attempt to fit windows front and rear.

Update: Looking at Nick's variation table, variation codes 12 and 14 appear to be identical. However, looking at how the listing is built up, I think varition code 14 should have 'post 2' rather than 'post 1'.

[Taniwha]

However, Rob Newson does suggest that the rows of pips at the front and rear of the inside of the roof might represent an abortive attempt to fit windows front and rear.

That's really interesting Hugh. I'd always assumed that the pips inside the roof of these earlier castings were put there to assist in freeing the casting from the die more easily.

Here's a poor photo of some of my Minx's - one of my favourites of all the 1-75 models:



I've recently (since this was taken) added a very nice grey over blue with GPW model to complete the four major variations of this one.

Cheers,
Gavin

[Idris]

However, Rob Newson does suggest that the rows of pips at the front and rear of the inside of the roof might represent an abortive attempt to fit windows front and rear.

That's really interesting Hugh. I'd always assumed that the pips inside the roof of these earlier castings were put there to assist in freeing the casting from the die more easily.

I think that's what most people these days would assume. I just thought I'd mention it because it is an interesting (but probably completely erroneous) idea.

[Ewan]

I have just obtained one of the Houghton 43a-9 variations you mention above (Nick's Code 8 but with gloss baseplate). Hope the photos are good enough!

Here it is on it's own.

DSCN0671 (450x337).jpg (69.29 KiB) Viewed 2849 times

A photo taken outside seems to show it slightly better, the 75a is there as I think it's the blue-green base but I can't get it pictured well......

DSCN0722 (450x337).jpg (155.23 KiB) Viewed 2849 times

[Diecast]

Just to remember, I have mentioned it yet. There is a mistake by Stannard and Nick´s description of the rear rivet post. The type 2 is not with large all round brace, but with large triangular brace.
Antonin

[Diecast]

I think that there are 4 colour variations:
a) green
b) pale blue
c) blue-grey
d) turquoise
Antonin

[Diecast]

There is another small mistake by Stannard and Nick. There is always mentioned 5 pips in the roof behind the windscreen, but there are 6 pips!!!

[kwakers]

Thank You Antonin for these updates and corrections today. I might add that a Seller I know quite well had sold a Green 43A with smooth roof and with no braces on the rear rivet post about a year ago now. I tried to buy it, but was outbid by quite a lot. If anyone has a similar green colored 43A without rivet post braces, or even knows the Buyer or owner of that model, we can then confirm that casting's existence on what might become a new first body type. Please check all your green 43As and those you handle at Shows carefully for this early weaker rear rivet post. kwakers

[Idris]

Just checked, and all of mine are pipped and braced.

[johnboy]

Mine has no pips but is braced (code 1).