M39

Notes

We are thrilled to be able to offer these remarkable models for sale. Issued in extremely low numbers at the time, they were assembled and painted in Arica, a duty-free city on the Northern tip of Chile. These exceptionally rare models were discovered by a collector on a trip to South America. The castings were made in Italy and then assembled and painted in Chile.

The owner of these models has supplied the following note:
“In the late 1960s for a very short period of time Mercury toys were painted and assembled in Arica Chile for domestic consumption. These toys often had differences from the standard Italian models, odd variations in colours, shades & details; they are without question the rarest of all Mercury toys. Only twelve examples are ?known? to exist in private collections worldwide.”

Finished in a slightly deeper red than its more common cousin, this Chilean Mercury issue has complete delicate transfers, virtually complete rear number plate, black interior and bare metal steering wheel. Silver spoked wheels and note that this Chilean issue has a bare metal base (standard issue has a red base).

Peering at the model closely, you may note the occasional little rub at the wheels and a few minor marks to the paint finish. Original tyres are well-shaped.
The vivid card box is clean and complete, with a crisp feel. Note the faint ‘ARMADO EN ARICA’ stamp on one non-picture side. Light crease and very minor wear besides. No tears or graffiti.