Delightful Dinky

Dinky was the star of the show at Sheffield Auction Gallery, after a number of Dinky lots all realised prices well above their pre-sale estimates. Taking one of the top spots was a Dinky Toys No. 181 Volkswagen Beetle in light blue with an unpainted base and spun hubs. “Absolutely pristine” noted the description, so the auctioneer must have been absolutely delighted with the £140 hammer price, which was more than double the top estimate.

Following close behind was a Dinky Toys No. 182 Porsche 356A Coupe. This was the rare pale blue version with blue hubs and a black base. In “as new condition” it had a fair box, with a blue dot, and a small tear to one end flap. Estimated at £100 to £200 it made £120.
Another little treat came courtesy of the continent with a French Dinky No. 520 Fiat 600D. Finished in red with a white interior and spun hubs, including a very good plus box, the diddy motor made £100.

Away from Dinky and a Spot-On piece certainly caused a stir. It was a No. 111A/OG Ford Thames Trader with artic flat float and garage kit. In a striking orange paint job, the box had some crushing and there was some chipping to vehicle. However, the bidders clearly fancied it, as it sold for £260 – almost double the top estimate.