Britains #101 - Band of the Life Guards (12 mounted) (1 Viewer)

[jack92029]

I have a large collection of the glossy Britains, that I haven't looked at in going on 15 years (?). My oldest set the Band Of the Life Guards, #101 - 12 mounted band members.

I noticed that one of the legs has broken off, and the box is damaged. I believe that this set is probably around 80 + years old so some wear is expected.

Is the damage to this set substantial, and how might it effect the sets value?

Do you know when this set was issued?

All your comments are welcome.

All of my other sets are MIB from the 1980's and 1990's. It appears that the glossy sets are not currently actively collected. Why did Britains switch to the Matte style. I have a few CW Matte sets but I prefer the glossy.

Thank you for your assistance.

Dave

 

[Mike Niederman]

This is the Coronation version of the set, issued in 1953. It was made through 1965. Britains changed their box style and numbering system in 1962, so this set could be from 1953 - 1962. Leave the figures tied in the box. Is the broken leg still in the box? The hollowcast glossies are still sought after, just not commanding the large bids at auction they used to. Check auction sites such as Vectis, Bonhams, and The Old Toy Soldier Auctions to get an idea. A Google image search for, say, "Britains set 101" is how I go about finding information on a particular set. It's important when offering an item for sale to provide clear images of any damage to the box and / or figures.
I prefer the glossy style, too, and the toy-like sculpting typical of the old Britains. Why people go for this "neither-fish-nor-fowl" style that passes for toy soldiers these days is beyond me. :tongue: