A relatively small brand were Tuckerbox Series Toy Cars which were made in Melbourne in the 1950’s and the castings or at least the dies were shared with Fun-Ho in New Zealand and ultimately ended up there.
I’ve got more information to prepare about this brand but it is interesting that Robert Newson in the UK has the most information on the brand that I have been able to find so far. His article on Matchbox Toys from Downunder is an interesting read.
My first acquisitions of Tuckerbox Series Toy Cars was only recently and as a result of a mix-up at some point, I did not get the expected Tuckerbox tractor but a Wardie Wee World Tractor, which naturally has led me off to discover Wardie Products and Kemlow which are UK based from the same era.
As most Australians would recognise, the Tucker Box Series models feature the Dog on the Tuckerbox at Gundagai in New South Wales as the logo.
Tuckerbox toys or more correctly Tucker Box Series Miniature Models date from around 1956 to 1960. Alex Tolmer & Associates distributed the models and that business name appears on the sides of the box. Tolmer founded Toltoys and had previously worked for John Brent ( the make of Brentware – Brentoy diecast models).
This Tuckerbox Series Austin Tanker in blue is one of 3 that are recent additions to my collection.
The two green and one pale blue Tuckerbox Series Austin Tankers were from one collection of models.
The under side of the models show no branding marks.
The two green and one pale blue Tuckerbox Series Austin Tankers were from one collection of models with two original boxes in poor condition.
This Tuckerbox Series Landrover model is complete with a driver.
The model features flat backed seats and apparently there is another casting variation with curved seats.
The under side shows no branding and the driver rivet end which indicates that the driver is original.
This original Tuckerbox Series tractor box came with this tractor and after some investigation it is a Wardie Wee World tractor with a broken guard and missing its driver.
Even though it came with the wrong tractor model, the box is a rarely seen item that I am happy to have in my collection.
As with most Australian made toys, if you have any for sale, or information about the history of Australian toys, please get in contact with me as I am interested to add to my knowledge and collection.