Collecting Britains Ltd toy soldiers is like holding a piece of history in miniature. From the groundbreaking hollow-cast lead figures of the 1890s to the colorful plastic Deetail ranges of the 1970s, Britains captured the uniforms, traditions, and imagination of generations. Each set reflects fine craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the evolution of military and civilian life. For collectors, they offer not just nostalgic charm but also historical significance and investment potential — with rare regiments and early boxed sets commanding strong demand worldwide.
Britains Ltd – The Toy Soldier Company
Founded: 1893 in London by William Britain Jr.
Specialty: Miniature figures — most famously toy soldiers.
Early Years (1893 – 1914)
- William Britain revolutionized the toy industry in 1893 by inventing the hollow-cast lead soldier.
- Before this, soldiers were solid and heavy; his method made them lighter, cheaper, and more detailed.
- Early sets depicted the British Army, colonial troops, and ceremonial regiments.
Golden Age (1918 – 1960s)
- Britains became the world leader in toy soldiers.
- They produced hundreds of different military figures: British regiments, Napoleonic wars, American Civil War, Cowboys & Indians, Knights, and foreign armies.
- They also expanded into farm animals, zoo animals, and civilian figures.
- Their figures were painted by hand, giving each set charm and individuality.
Changes & Safety Era (1966 onwards)
- In 1966, due to concerns about lead poisoning, Britains stopped making lead figures.
- They switched to plastic figures under the Herald and later Deetail ranges.
- “Deetail” became a huge success in the 1970s–80s, with plastic soldiers mounted on metal bases for stability.
Later Years & Ownership Changes
- Britains was sold to Tomy (Japanese toy giant) in the 1980s.
- The farm range (tractors, animals, accessories) became just as famous as the soldiers, often branded as Britains Farm.
- Today, collectors focus on both vintage lead soldiers and later plastic lines.
Legacy
- Britains Ltd is considered the most iconic toy soldier manufacturer in the world.
- Their figures are in museums, collected internationally, and still influence the style of miniature soldiers made today.
- For collectors, pre-1966 lead soldiers are especially valuable, particularly boxed sets in good condition.
Highly Collectible Britains Ltd Sets
Military Sets
- Set No. 1 – The Life Guards (1893 onwards)
The very first Britains set of hollow-cast lead soldiers — a landmark in toy history. Original examples are rare and highly valuable. - Set No. 16 – The Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders
Famous for their kilts and detailed painting. Highland regiments are always popular with collectors. - Set No. 32 – The Grenadier Guards (with officer and band)
One of the longest-running and most iconic Britains sets. - Set No. 101 – Royal Horse Artillery Gun Team
A spectacular set with horses, riders, limbers, and a cannon. Large display sets like this are very collectible. - Set No. 132 – Band of the Line Regiment
Britains made many military bands, and boxed sets with all instruments intact are especially prized. - American Civil War Series (1960s)
Union and Confederate soldiers — among the last lead series before the lead ban. Popular with U.S. collectors.
Civilian & Special Series
- Farm Series (1920s–1960s)
Early farm animals, farmers, and machinery are collectible, especially boxed. - Zoo Series (1920s–1960s)
Lions, tigers, elephants, and keepers. Complete boxed zoo sets are rare. - Knights of the Round Table (1950s)
A short-lived line of knights and castles — now very collectible.
Deetail (Plastic, 1970s–1980s)
- Deetail Cowboys & Indians
Very popular among modern collectors, especially complete boxed playsets. - Deetail World War II Germans & British Infantry
Well-detailed, with detachable weapons — nostalgic for many collectors.
Most Valuable
- Early pre-1900 sets in original boxes (like Set No. 1 Life Guards).
- Large display sets (Royal Horse Artillery, military bands).
- Rare regiments (Highlanders, Colonial troops, exotic uniforms).
Top Collectible Britains Ltd Sets & Their Market Value
Below is a curated list of standout Britains Ltd sets—especially those that tend to command premium prices on the collector market:
1. Set No. 1 – The Life Guards (Lead, 1893–1966)
- Why collectible: This historic set was the very first produced by Britains Ltd using the innovative hollow-cast technique—marking a turning point in toy manufacturing history
- Value range: Even used, these sets often sell for around GBP 150 (roughly USD 200) on platforms like eBay . Collector condition and original box significantly affect price.
2. Band & Large Military Display Sets
- Examples: Set No. 132 (Band of the Line Regiment) or Royal Horse Artillery teams with limbers and guns.
- Why collectible: Large, detailed sets with multiple figures and accessories—especially in original packaging—are rare and highly sought after.
3. Regimental Favorites
- Notable sets: Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders (No. 16), Grenadier Guards (No. 32), Yeomen of the Guard (“Beefeaters”)
- Value note: Full sets, especially with original paint and boxed, can capture more attention and higher prices among enthusiasts.
4. Deetail Plastic Sets (1970s–1980s)
- Popular themes: American Civil War, WWII infantry, Cowboys & Indians, Paratroopers.
- Why collectible: Though made of plastic, these figures feature hand-painted details and metal bases; boxed, mint-condition pieces—especially rare variants—can fetch up to USD 200+
- For example, a full boxed Confederate cavalry set reached USD 200 on eBay