After a suggestion by fellow collector Jan Werner for a group photo of my recently completed collection of Dinky 972 Coles Crane variants, I decided to share one by writing this article. The 972 was introduced in May 1955 and its arrival was advertised by a full page ad in that month’s issue of Meccano Magazine.
Although other sub variants of these very popular models exist, I chose to collect the obvious ones when it comes to wheel and box types, so these six complete my collection. Because I don’t have the space to display my entire collection of diecast models, group photos like these are a treat for me to view and I suspect for other Dinky Toys fans as well.
My collection of Dinky 972 Cole Crane models.
From left to right:
- My first 972 purchased in 1990 from Unique Collections in the UK. It was also my first Golden Age Dinky Toy.
- The French issue was bought on eBay France in 2004.
- The German Coles Crane promotional came from my crane collector friend Hubert Moller in Germany in 2021. It also includes the unique Coles Cranes Germany leaflet.
- The illustrated lift-off lid box version came from a one owner California collection in 2025. There’s great artwork on this box which features the Mighty Antar with propeller. The model and box are virtually new.
- The last issue all-card end flap box with black plastic wheels came from a one owner collection that was purchased new in 1969 and 1970 from FAO Schwarz in New York City. The owner lived in Paterson, NJ and his nephew was selling the collection on eBay in 2024.
- The last issue all-card end flap box version with yellow plastic wheels came from my crane collector friend Hubert Moller in Germany in 2015. The 972 is my favorite Golden Age Dinky Toy and I’ve always been a fan of real truck cranes too.
Here are close up pictures of the models, which represent thirty five years of seeking out the nicest examples I could find and afford. They are also complete with all the correct inner packaging, which is a must for me.
