Matchbox/Lesney 74c; Toe Joe; Metallic Green/gold, Unpainted Base, Amber Windows, Green Jibs, Red Hooks

Toe Joe or Tow Joe? I've seen it written both ways but the baseplate says 'Toe Joe'. This is one of those weird fantasy made-up vehicles that all the mainstream makers played about with in the seventies - and I guess Mattel through their Matchbox and Hot Wheels brands are still doing. It must have been popular because millions were made and sold over eleven years from 1971 to 1982 inclusive,

You can find this tow truck in shades of metallic green, yellow or red and with the baseplate, jibs and hooks in a variety of colour combinations. I have seen about 20 variations listed in total - so it makes an interesting model to focus on and to try and chase them all down.

There are some rarities too which will cost a bit if you find them. There are so many though that you need to be careful and to look them up in Ramsay or another similar guide. As a rule of thumb though red ones tend to be worth more and yellow ones with 'Hitch Hiker' stickers.

This Matchbox/Lesney was sourced in July 2013 from eBay