Although Corgi has a long history of producing American vehicles, they were originally designed for British schoolboys captivated by the cars and emergency vehicles they saw on TV and in movies. Iconic Corgi Toys like the Oldsmobile Sheriff Car and the Cadillac Superior Ambulance quickly became fan favourites, selling in the hundreds of thousands. However, it wasn't until the mid-1960s that Corgi started focusing more on the USA market, with many models being sold exclusively at Woolworth’s across the States.
Corgi’s innovative features were a huge hit, and their stream of cleverly crafted models, produced in the UK, set a new standard in the die-cast industry that competitors struggled to match. Without a doubt, Corgi Toys were the best of the best, capturing the imagination of children and, as those children grew into adults, sparking a lasting sense of nostalgia that continues to grow today.
For Corgi, these were exciting times. The company won the prestigious Queen’s Award for Export in 1966, 1967, and 1968, and by 1968, nearly 10 million models were being exported annually. This massive success had a major impact on Corgi’s model choices, with American-themed vehicles becoming increasingly prominent in their catalogue. These cars didn’t just appeal to US buyers – they also delighted children worldwide, including right here in Australia. American vehicles were seen as thrilling and exotic, a world apart from the more utilitarian cars common on European streets at the time.
The increasing popularity of TV and movie-themed models, such as the 1965 James Bond DB5, helped cement Corgi Toys' iconic status worldwide. Having one of these models was a mark of prestige – something every Australian child would have been proud to own.
Corgi’s first American car, the Studebaker Golden Hawk, remains a beloved piece in the Corgi collection. But it wasn’t just American cars that captured the imagination of collectors. British classics like the Mini, and European legends like the Volkswagen Beetle, Porsche, MG, Mercedes, and Jaguar, also became highly sought after. For Aussie collectors, these cars represent a perfect blend of nostalgia and excitement.
The Corgi Model Club Collection beautifully recreates the classic models from the 1960s golden era of Corgi Toys. Each model faithfully replicates the original die-cast bodies, finely detailed plastic features, rubber tyres, and the renowned ‘Glidamatic’ suspension, not to mention the fully glazed windows. Holding one of these models instantly transports you back to the magic of childhood – a feeling that is priceless.
We’re incredibly proud of the Corgi Model Club Collection and are confident you’ll love it too. Each model comes in its period-correct packaging, perfect for display, along with a sequentially numbered Certificate of Authenticity. As Corgi once said, “Collect them all” – and now is your chance to do just that!
We hope our collection brings back cherished memories of your childhood or helps create new ones with family and friends.
Happy collecting from the Corgi Model Club Team!
