MATCHBOX SERIES

Encouraging attendees to take catalogs at trade shows can be challenging, but the allure of free gifts, especially those with intrinsic value, offers a promising solution. To address this, Continental-Aero adopted the strategy of distributing toy trucks as giveaways.

Matchbox has long made branded cars and trucks for companies. These promo designs are never sold retail, but rather given away as a promotion with a proof-of-purchase. Through negotiations, we persuaded Matchbox to create limited runs for us. The inaugural set of four trucks was restricted to 5,000 units each, while Truck #5 and Truck #6 saw an increase to 10,000 pieces each. Surprisingly, the Continental-Aero purple trucks evolved into sought-after collectibles.

Primarily distributed at trade shows and during sales calls to current and potential clients, these trucks are relatively scarce in circulation. The limited availability contributes to an increase in their market value. Moreover, enthusiasts who avidly collect specific truck models, such as the 'Model T' and 'Model A,' further fuel the trucks' collectible status.

First Edition

Issued in 1994 or thereabouts. If you know Marty, he is vague about almost everything, so it stands to reason that he is not sure when this came out. A limited edition of 5000 pieces is unique in that it is the only truck that is modern, not a vintage, classic one. It also has paper panels with graphics. All the other truck graphics are directly on the bodies. The Volvo, being a first edition, is currently worth around $75.00

Volvo 1981 Container Truck

Made in China

1:90 scale

Second Edition

The Model T is the oldest truck that Matchbox produces so it was a natural first choice for the “retro” series. Collectors also adore this truck so it is worth $60.00 today.

Model T Truck 1921

5,000 piece run

Third Edition

Continuing in the 'retro' vein, the Model A is the successor to the Model T. Also, highly prized among the collectors, the Model A is worth approximately $50.00.

Model A Truck

Made in China

5,000 piece run

Fourth Edition

The shortest in height but the most stylish and sleek. This was and is still very popular with Continental-Aero's customers. Very few reached the collector's market. Value is assessed at $40.00.

1939 Chevy Sedan Delivery Truck

Made in Thailand

1:63 scale

Fifth Edition

A glorious failure in actual truck production, but a major styling success. This was the first truck made by Matchbox for Continental-Aero after it was bought by Mattel. The minimum production run was doubled and the cost of the truck went up 50%. Not readily available in the toy stores. This piece is highly valued by collectors and worth approximately $40.00.

1938 Dodge Airflow

1:80 Scale

Sixth Edition

Valued at $35.00, this truck was given out since around 2000. Marty couldn't find anyone at Matchbox to make another edition, so this one lasted four years.

1937 Mack Junior

1:66 Scale

10,000 Piece Run

Seventh Edition

Each of these trucks costs approximately three times the cost of the first edition. Hence, only 5,000 were made. Worth $25.00 - $30.00. Approximately 500 were made in the wrong shade of purple. These are not for distribution (against our ISO policy). The very few available have gone for $100.00 in the collectors market.

1956 Ford Pickup

Made in China

Eighth Edition

This vehicle chosen for our 65th anniversary. The pick up signifies our hard-working spirit.

Ford Pickup

Scale 1:64

Ninth Edition

This vehicle was chosen to commemorate our 65th anniversary and our dedication to speedy and accurate deliveries.

Delivery Sprinter Van

Tenth Edition

Chosen to signify our diamond anniversary.

1948 Tucker Torpedo