Matchbox 21a/21b; Long Distance Coach / Bedford Duple Luxury Coach

Also known as the 'Long Distance Coach' and originally had a decal on the sides of the roof saying 'London to Glasgow' which in the days before the M1, M6 and M74 were built, was a very long distance indeed by road, probably more than a single day's journey. Which way would they go? A41 through Birmingham, Mersey Tunnel and Liverpool, then pick up the A6 in Lancashire, over Shap to Carlisle then up the A74 through Lockerbie to Glasgow or would you go A1 to Scotch Corner, pick up the A66 (getting your kicks on the way) over to Penrith and pick up the A6 there? Its a bloody long and bleak journey whichever way you look at it. The toy is modelled on the Duple-bodied Bedford SB Coach, the bus chassis based on the S Type 'Big Bedford' truck.

The first release of the Long Distance Coach 21a is 57mm to the 21b's 68mm in length. Both coaches are green, 21a has a green base, 21b has a black base. The first release, 21a, was in 1956. It was replaced by 21b in 1958 which remained in the range until 1961. 21a is always the same green with metal wheels, the painted trim though can be silver or gold. You will find 21b in various shades of green with metal wheels or plastic wheels in grey or silver.

The real rarity is the dark green 21b with silver plastic wheels which according to Ramsay can fetch over £5,000, huge money for a Matchbox. Back on this planet, the harder to find 21b versions are in a B type box. Also look for 21a with gold trim, this is another rare and quite valuable model.