Car kits steal the sale show
In the January Auction Centre event the big money seemed to be on kits – which made a refreshing change from the prevalence of Star Wars miniatures. Highlight of the sale was the group of Airfix and Revell unmade car models. These included bagged examples of the rare Renault Dauphine, a sporty Sunbeam Rapier and the ever-popular Austin Healey Sprite. The Supercharged Bentley was the earliest version and the Morris Mini Minor was a real treat to see. In turn, Revell supplied the Morris Minor Traveller, the famous “Woody”. Whilst the Airfix kits were still sealed, the Revell example had been opened. The kits were in very good condition overall and the hammer price of £280 (plus premium) testified to their desirability.
Hasbro’s Action Man also attracted the bidders: in this case a boxed limited edition evoking the 1966 World Cup. The figure was numbered 948 out of 1,000 produced and showed some signs of display, otherwise being excellent in a good overall lift-off, lidded box. Interestingly, the inner lid bore an inscription to the late vendor, along with the signature of Don Levine, one of the founding fathers of Action Man’s US counterpart, GI Joe. An unusual Action Man collectable, it sold for £140.
Franklin Mint miniatures continue to turn up regularly at auction and the Emergency One Fire Engine in 1/32 scale represented a model of an HP 105 fire appliance. Measuring 49cm long and in near mint condition, it was accompanied by all of its original paperwork and accessories. This impressive vehicle was knocked down for £120. ■