page_title: Matchbox (brand)
section_title: Rarity and variations
hierarchical_section_title: Matchbox (brand) / Model collectibility and value / Rarity and variations
caption_attribution_description: For collectors to succeed in collecting the ultimate prize, they must collect each version or variant of each Matchbox issued. This is Matchbox #35 in 3 variants and is a model of a [Snow Trac] [Snowcat]. The 3 versions include a plain sided model, an embossed sided model, and a model with white decals on the side. For dedicated Matchbox collectors there was also a puzzle collection that featured photos of some selected Matchbox models.
context_page_description: Matchbox is a popular British toy brand which was introduced by Lesney Products in 1953, and is now owned by Mattel, Inc, which purchased the brand in 1997. The brand was given its name because the original die-cast Matchbox toys were sold in boxes similar to those in which matches were sold. The brand grew to encompass a broad range of toys, including larger scale die-cast models, plastic model kits, and action figures.
  During the 1980s, Matchbox began to switch to the more conventional plastic and cardboard "blister packs" that were used by other die-cast toy brands such as Hot Wheels. The box style packaging was re-introduced for the collectors' market in recent years, particularly with the release of the "35th Anniversary of Superfast" series in 2004.
context_section_description: The rarity of a model can refer either to the model in general, or to a variation thereof.
  Some models are produced in very limited quantities. Prior to the evolution of "purpose-made" collectibles (cf. "Matchbox Collectibles", below) – i.e. models made in intentionally limited quantities to allow a high initial sales price and/or force the value to remain high on the collectors market – rarity was based on the simple criterion that the production numbers of a model were low. This was not generally due to any specific intent by the manufacturer.  For example, this could occur if the mold (die) broke, or if the model proved to be unpopular and was replaced very quickly, creating a situation in which "normal" numbers of the model never reached the market.
  Variations are changes in production models. The most common three types are changes in the materials used, in the dies, or in the colour scheme.  For instance, early Matchbox models were entirely made of metal, including the tyres/wheels. However, within the first few years of production, Lesney switched to plastic wheels.  These were silver at first; later, grey wheels were fitted, followed finally by black wheels. Thus it was entirely possible that models introduced in the '50s could be fitted with four different wheel types during the span of their inclusion in the series – or even more, since there were further variations (e.g. knobby or smooth) besides the colour or material. Depending on the particular model, a given wheel type might be much rarer than the others.
  Moulds or dies are changed at times. This is commonly due to weaknesses in the final die-cast product, or to difficulties in production caused by the die. Often, the changes are very minor, even minute, and may occur in places that are not clearly visible at first glance. Especially in cases where e.g. a weakness was detected early in the production run, the numbers of early versions reaching the market are often quite low.
  Colour changes – now commonplace, a planned marketing tool – were rarer earlier, with most models being produced over the span of their inclusion in the series in just one or two major colour schemes.  However, not only the colour of the model's body must be regarded, but rather the entire model— including baseplate, interior, windows – and thus changes in different components can lead to a factorial increase in variation possibilities.
  Age also plays an important part in making a model rare.  A model produced in standard quantities in the 1950s will likely be much rarer today than one produced in similar quantities the 1980s.
caption: 3 versions of the same mid-1960s Matchbox Snow Trac toy, all designated #35, yet each a variation: While the model pictured in the middle has the words "Snow-Trac" cast into the sides, the first has plain-cast sides and "Snow-Trac" decals; the third version has plain sides and no brand badging
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