Description
The Dinky Toys Morris Oxford #159 is another classic model in the Dinky Toys line, produced during the mid-20th century. The Morris Oxford was a popular British car manufactured by the Morris Motors Limited company, and Dinky Toys created a miniature version of it as part of their collectible range of cars.
Key Details about the Dinky Toys Morris Oxford #159:
1. Model Number:
- The Morris Oxford is cataloged as No. 159 in the Dinky range.
2. Release Date:
- The model was introduced in 1954 and was part of the Dinky “Cars” series, which typically featured British cars and commercial vehicles.
3. Design & Features:
- Body Style: The model is a saloon (sedan) version of the Morris Oxford, representing the car’s design from the 1950s.
- Body Color: The Morris Oxford #159 typically came in light blue, dark blue, or green with some variations over time. The roof of the car is generally white or a light color, creating a two-tone effect that was popular at the time.
- Chrome Detailing: Like many Dinky cars, it has chrome bumpers, a detailed front grille, and headlights that add realism to the model.
- Wheels: The car features metal wheels and rubber tires, which were common for Dinky cars from this era.
- Windows: Clear plastic windows add to the realism, allowing you to view the interior of the car.
- The roofline and proportions are representative of the real-life Morris Oxford.
4. Size:
- The model is around 3 inches (7.6 cm) long, which is typical of Dinky Toys cars during this period.
5. Base and Markings:
- The baseplate of the model is stamped with the Dinky Toys logo and may include information such as “Made in England.”
- The base also includes the model number (#159) and possibly the manufacturer’s name.
6. Rarity and Collectibility:
- The Dinky Toys Morris Oxford #159 is a desirable model for collectors, especially in good condition with its original paint, wheels, and box. Its value increases if it’s in mint condition, or if it’s still in its original packaging.
- As with most Dinky Toys, the model’s value can vary based on the condition, with examples that have signs of wear or missing parts being less valuable than those in excellent condition.
7. Variations:
- As with many Dinky models, the Morris Oxford #159 was produced in multiple color variations, with common ones being light blue, dark blue, and green.
- Some models were produced with different wheel designs or finishings, and these variations may slightly affect the collectibility and value of the model.
8. Historical Significance:
- The Morris Oxford was a very popular car in postwar Britain, so the Dinky Toys #159 is a reflection of a beloved British automobile from the 1950s.
- As part of Dinky’s strategy, the Morris Oxford #159 was made to appeal to both children who played with the toys and adults who collected them, a trait that has given Dinky Toys models lasting appeal in the world of vintage toy car collecting.
The Dinky Toys Morris Oxford #159 is a beautiful representation of a classic British car from the 1950s, and it remains a highly collectible item among toy enthusiasts and model collectors alike.
