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Not a Models of Yesteryear model but an important Matchbox model, this Matchbox Dinky Collection DY21 Austin Mini Cooper CODE 4 in Fiesta yellow.
A very rare model. 1 of 5 made by Matchbox R&D

During the process of research and development of the DY21 Austin Mini Cooper, the Dinky team borrowed a Mr Mansfield's real car for measurement. In gratitude for his help he was given 4 models in the exact colour and registration of his own car. In total 5 models were made in this colour (the normal model is cream and black)
It is classed as a CODE 4 because it was not meant for public sale

Nigel Clarke acquired it in the 16th January 2013 Vectis sale from Joe Recchia's collection.
Joe's initials are on a yellow sticker on the base of the car. Please see the photos.
It had been part of Nigel's personal collection and recently I bought it from him.
Although I no longer collect the Matchbox Dinky Collection range (I had a very big collection until 1996, with preproduction, code-2 and many other models) I thought this code-4 is an important model to have.

See the history and a picture of the original owner with the real car in MICA Volume 14, nbr 4 (nov / dec 1998) page 142 onwards.

















Very happy that I won this one.
marcel

Thank you for showing. This is one I never knew existed. I wish there were more color changes in the Dinky collection and even though only five were made this is good to see.

I know I'm a little late to this party, but two things about this model stand out. One is the single gas tank cap, which is more indicative of a standard Mini than a Cooper. The second is the legend "Austin Mini Cooper S" inscribed on the base, in combination with the Morris grill and hood badge. Regardless, it's a beautiful model, and you're most fortunate to have it!

That is indeed a nice model to have. The single fuel cap is OK for a 1964 car, as the twin tanks weren't fitted to the Cooper S as standard until 1966 - before that it was an option.

As far as I am aware, the grille and front badge are correct for an Austin.

Fred7A wrote:As far as I am aware, the grille and front badge are correct for an Austin.

They do indeed appear to be correct for an Austin Mini Cooper. I had the standard Mini on the brain when I made my earlier comment.