~ Dinky 34B Royal Mail Van ~
The Dinky 34B Royal Mail Van is a classic die-cast toy vehicle produced by the British company Meccano Ltd under the “Dinky Toys” brand. This model represents the Royal Mail van, a staple of British postal service vehicles from the mid-20th century.
Description:
Model Number: 34B (later renumbered to 260 in the 1954 catalog).
Scale: The model is roughly 1:43 scale, typical for Dinky Toys.
Material: Die-cast metal.
Color: The van is painted in a distinctive deep red, matching the iconic color of Royal Mail vehicles. The roof may be a darker color, such as black or dark maroon, depending on the production period.
Design Features:
Royal Mail Insignia: The sides of the van feature the Royal Mail logo and lettering, typically in gold or yellow.
Wheels: The van has smooth or treaded black rubber tires mounted on metal hubs.
Windows: The model features cast windows, with no glazing (a common feature in earlier Dinky Toys).
Base: The base is usually unpainted metal, marked with “Dinky Toys,” “Made in England,” and the model number.
History:
Production Period: The Dinky 34B Royal Mail Van was produced from 1947 to 1954. During this time, it underwent a few variations in details, such as changes in the baseplate design or wheel type.
Inspiration: The model was inspired by the real Royal Mail delivery vans that were a common sight on British streets in the post-war era. These vans were used to transport mail between post offices and various delivery points.
Legacy: The Dinky 34B is a popular collectible among toy enthusiasts due to its representation of a key piece of British cultural heritage—the Royal Mail. Its solid construction and iconic design make it a sought-after item in the vintage toy market.
Rebranding: In 1954, the model was renumbered as 260 and continued to be a part of the Dinky Toys line until it was eventually discontinued. The change in numbering was part of a broader reorganization of the Dinky Toys catalog.
Collectibility:
Condition: The value of a Dinky 34B Royal Mail Van can vary significantly depending on its condition. A mint-condition model with the original box can fetch a high price among collectors.
Rarity: While the model is relatively common, certain variations, such as those with specific wheel types or paint finishes, can be rarer and more valuable.
The Dinky 34B Royal Mail Van remains a beloved piece of die-cast toy history, representing the post-war period in Britain and the heyday of Dinky Toys. It is prized by collectors for its nostalgic value and connection to the iconic Royal Mail service.