D161

Notes

Issued between 1939-41, this is one of the earliest military Gift Sets from Dinky. The Gift Set comprises:
1) 161A Lorry with Searchlight, in original gloss military green finish, with smooth green wheels, black tyres and thin axles. Runs smoothly. The occasional little mark, and a couple of very minor fatigue lines. A small portion of the tow hook has broken off now (probably due to contact with the other item in the box). Overall impression is extremely fine with the searchlight and all its delicate parts complete. The searchlight can still be elevated on its base. Bright metal parts. Looks barely handled. Certainly, few have survived so well!

2) 161B A.A. Gun on Trailer. Matching gloss green finish with smooth green wheels, and original black tyres. Runs smoothly. Complete with all delicate parts. Few little marks, and the elevating mechanism for the gun needs attention since the gun no longer elevates, but still rotates. At some time, the gun barrel has been carefully re-attached. No parts missing. Very hard item to find in any condition; indeed, often these sets have this model replaced with a post-war example.

The colourful card inner with scenic backdrop is as nice as you can imagine – vivid colours on sturdy intact blue card. Slots for the models have minor wear only. Outstanding!

The outer box looks virtually shop-fresh! Amazing to find such an early box in this condition. Such deep, vivid colours. Surely this set has been handled only occasionally and then very carefully indeed! Stored out of the light, the colours are so strong and unfaded.

Dinky print on the box lid dates this set from March 1939.
To complete the set, the card packing piece which fits over the models is still present and again in virtually perfect condition!

Always thrilling to find early Dinky Gift Sets in this condition!