Description
The Dinky Toys Big Bedford has sqwashed front axle and would need repair comes with new tyres. This truck is one of the larger and more iconic commercial vehicles produced by Dinky Toys. The model is a Bedford lorry, a popular truck model in the UK during the mid-20th century, which Dinky replicated in its toy range. The Big Bedford is part of Dinky’s commercial vehicle lineup and is known for its size and sturdy design, making it a significant piece in their series of larger trucks and lorries.
Key Details about the Dinky Toys Big Bedford Truck:
1. Model Number:
- The Dinky Toys Big Bedford Truck was released as Dinky Toys #25 and was sometimes referred to simply as the “Bedford Lorry” or “Bedford Truck”.
- Dinky No. 25 is the most common catalog number associated with this model.
2. Release Date:
- The Dinky Toys Big Bedford was first introduced in 1950.
3. Design & Features:
- Body Style: The Big Bedford is a large, flatbed lorry, designed to resemble a commercial Bedford truck used for transporting goods. It was a large, heavy-duty vehicle, a common workhorse in the UK during the post-war period.
- Color: The typical Dinky #25 Bedford Truck came in a bright red color with a green chassis and a gray or brown flatbed. These colors were popular in Dinky’s early lorry models.
- Details: The cab features a chrome grille and headlights, along with plastic windows in the cab. The flatbed area is large, designed for hauling cargo, which made it stand out among other Dinky models.
- Wheels: It has metal wheels with rubber tires, providing good rolling action.
- Size: The Big Bedford is a larger-scale model compared to many other Dinky vehicles, measuring around 7.5 inches (19 cm) long.
4. Base and Markings:
- The baseplate is usually stamped with “Dinky Toys” and the model number 25, along with the “Made in England” mark.
- The baseplate often also includes “Bedford” or “Bedford Lorry”, confirming the truck’s real-world inspiration.
5. Rarity and Collectibility:
- The Dinky Toys Big Bedford truck is highly collectible, especially among those who focus on Dinky’s commercial vehicle lineup. The model is relatively rare in mint condition, particularly those with original paint and undamaged parts.
- Versions that come with the original box or have unique features (such as special decals) are considered particularly valuable in the collector market.
- The Big Bedford Truck is especially sought after by collectors of Dinky lorries and post-war vehicles. Its large size and realistic design make it a standout piece in many collections.
6. Variations:
- There are several variations of the Dinky Big Bedford, especially regarding its color scheme and decals.
- Color Variations: While red is the most common color, there are some variations in the shade of red and green. Some models were produced in different color combinations, such as blue with a red chassis.
- Bedford Branding: Some versions of the Bedford truck have the Bedford name prominently displayed on the sides of the flatbed, while others might have different logos or no logos at all.
- Chassis Variations: Some of the trucks feature different types of chassis or wheel hubs, depending on when they were produced.
7. Historical Significance:
- The Bedford truck was a crucial part of post-war British commercial transport, widely used by many businesses and the military. Dinky’s model of the Big Bedford truck captures the essence of British commercial vehicles of that era.
- The Dinky Toys Big Bedford serves as both a toy and a model for collectors, reflecting the industrial and transportation landscape of the 1950s.
8. Market Value:
- The Dinky Toys #25 Big Bedford truck’s value can vary greatly depending on its condition, the presence of the original box, and the model’s specific features (e.g., color variations or decals). Models in excellent condition can fetch a premium price.
- Generally, the Big Bedford can range in price from $100 to $300 (or more) for well-preserved examples. Those in mint condition or with their original boxes can see higher values at auctions or in private sales.
Summary:
The Dinky Toys Big Bedford Truck (No. 25) is an iconic model from the early post-war years, representing the Bedford lorry used for transporting goods in Britain. Its bright, colorful design, large size, and practical features made it a standout in Dinky’s lineup of commercial vehicles. Highly collectible, this model remains a favorite among Dinky enthusiasts, particularly those with a focus on British transport and vintage toys.
