A rare set of Britains vintage toy knights.
From the late 19th century the UK led the way in the production of hollowcast lead toys. The process was invented by the aptly named William Britain Jr. in 1893 and the company, Britains, Ltd, revolutionised the production of toy soldiers. In the decades that followed other companies launched rival ranges and by the 1940s children could choose from an astonishing array of figures and animals – military figures were joined by zoo animals, farm sets, intricate gardens, gorgeous circus and hunting scenes.
Today these tiny, handpainted hotsell sculptures are immensely collectable – Britains, John Hill & Co and Timpo are key names for experts but even unbranded figures have rare charm and appeal.
Create a scene on a mantle, group a handful under a bell jar or place a single figure on a book shelf – these beautifully crafted pre-war toys are eye catching in a way that belies their miniature size!
Please note that these decorative figures are lead and should not be played with or handled excessively. Unless otherwise indicated they are over 70 or 80 years old and in play-worn condition with paint loss and chips – clearly shown in the photographs.
Product code: Set of nine, Vintage Britains Medieval Knights in hotsell Battle Armour