Quick march! Collectible toy soldiers are heading to an Edinburgh auction

A display of over 2000 soldiers from more than 25 Regiments augmented by Regimental and Pipe Bands, Cavalry, Commonwealth and other troops together with a display of Field Artillery, Anti-Aircraft Weapons, Searchlights and Military vehicles will greet prospective buyers when visiting Thomson Roddick's Auction Centre in Rosewell.

Lead toy Scottish soldiers
Lead toy Scottish soldiers

Perfectly crafted by "Britain's" who were the leading manufacturers of hollow-cast lead figures from 1893 until 1973 when models had to be cast in alloys for Health and Safety considerations. Part of the estate of a deceased Lady they are all meticulously painted in the correct regimental colours and flashes.

The auction contains a fascinating reminder of the brilliant colours and designs of past and current regimental uniforms. Also in the collection are some of the more unusual regiments such as the Camel Corps, Frontier Force and Cape Town Highlanders.

Some of the larger sets build up to such famous formations such as "The British Square", which has been used since Victorian times predominately against cavalry.

Toy Soldiers Pipers of the Scots Guards
Toy Soldiers Pipers of the Scots Guards

Lead toy soldiers vary in value with the rarest selling for around £1,000, but with no further supply of lead examples a continuing fascination in many countries with the finely cast and artistically coloured pieces, they represent a good choice for an investment.

Also to be included in the Auction will be a large selection of other collectibles including Hardy and other fishing equipment. The Winter Collectors Auction will take place on 11th November 2010 in Edinburgh.

 

 

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