In 1947 Meccano made a big announcement, with the creation and advent of the Supertoys line of models. These would largely be commercial vehicles, built to a much larger scale then the previous pre-war models, and also more expensive. Sharing the stage with the Foden lineup of trucks was the smaller companion line of Guy trucks. There were several models of Guy trucks made, as well as a series of wonderful vans a few years later.
Those Dinky Supertoys Guy trucks and vans have always been very popular amongst us collectors, and I am no exception. Since the Guy trucks were somewhat smaller than their Foden counterparts, they were equipped with more appropriate smaller tires, which fit them well. They were made in a variety of colors over the years.
My very first Guy was this 511 Guy 4‑Ton Lorry, part of that initial offering in 1947 but acquired in 1959. As a young boy, I was struck by how nice looking and impressive this truck was, starting a lifelong liking for all the Guy trucks and vans. It is finished in this beautiful blue two-tone color. A really classic Dinky commercial vehicle, in the classic blue and white striped box!
Next is the 513/913/433 Dinky Supertoys Guy Flat Truck with Tailboard, produced from 1947 to 1957 and available in several different colors. My example is an early one, as the box coding shows it being packaged in January, 1948: 75 years ago. This happened to be a really excellent model, and the early first-type Supertoys box is almost like new, save for some rusting of the staples.
Notice the box is made of plain cardstock with added decals and visible staples. Interesting that Meccano did not use an illustration of the truck with tailboard, but used the plain flat truck and just added the correct wording.
I really like these tailboard models: that extra added feature at the rear seems to really set them off!
The third version of the Guy trucks was the 512/912/432 Guy Flat Truck, made from 1947 until 1957. Like the other two, it was made in several different colors over the years. Here it is with its later style box.
Mine shown here is a later version, which is apparent by the small addition of two triangular webs or supports on either side of the front number plate. This was apparently to add strength to that area; no official record has been found discussing this.
Like their cousins the Foden’s, these early Guy trucks are just wonderful early models. Here are the big brother, little brother together: the Guy and Foden Flat Trucks with Tailboard!
