In this series I will showcase DLM cars ranging within the 1/64 and smaller. The 19th one is another small size die cast Matchbox #11A ERF Petrol Tanker.
Originally introduced in the 50's under the Moko Lesney, this is another reissue of the original Matchbox series that were then made years ago and are called Matchbox Originals made under the Matchbox International, Limited which at that time was owned by Universal Toys of David Yeh who is the chairman of the company. The company was then sold to Tyco toys in May 1992.
The original came in either red or dark yellow.
The box that came with the reissue indicated 11a however the sample above which is 11a as well looks different. More likely it is closer to 11b
The tanker size is rather small for a 1/64 scale as Matchbox has a certain size rule regardless of the type of vehicle produced.
Again this is an under appreciated casting compared to the original as it is almost a faithful recreation of the original. For those who are not aware of the differences, the color used on the body is different and the wheel has a shiner chrome-like finish while the original is more dull zinc. The original also has crimped axles.
Also you can easily distinguished the original by the “Esso” decal at the rear which is not present in the reissue.
The bottom area indicates made in China instead of England. This was also the time when toys were pretty simple so this did not come with interior or chassis.
These were released in Series I - IV with around 4 -5 models per series. The ERF is under Series III.
The ERF Petrol tank is the forerunner of many models to use the ERF cab.
Here is a photo of the ERF 1:1 truck
I really appreciate the little fun products in days gone by and hope you will too.