Guides & Histories for Diecast Collectors

Common Problems With Diecast Aircraft Models: Repairs, Damage & Zinc Rot

Learn about common diecast aircraft problems, including paint wear, loose or missing parts, previous repairs, packaging damage and serious zinc rot.

How Much Is My Diecast Aircraft Model Worth? Identification & Value Guide

Learn how to identify and value diecast aircraft models by checking the model code, condition, packaging, accessories, rarity and recent sold prices.

How to Grade Diecast Aircraft Models: A Collector’s Condition Guide

A collector-focused guide to grading diecast aircraft models, including paintwork, box wear, missing accessories, repairs and Mint to Fair condition ratings.

The process of creating diecast models

Discover how diecast models are made, from design and metal casting to painting and assembly in this step-by-step guide to the diecast production process.

How to Spot a Rare Diecast Aircraft Model

Learn how to identify rare diecast aircraft models with this collector's guide. Discover what makes a model valuable, from limited editions to historic liveries.

A Beginner’s Guide to Diecast Model Collecting

Embark on your aviation journey with A Beginner's Guide to Aircraft Model Collecting. Discover the essentials to elevate your collection with precision and flair.

The History of Corgi Aviation Archive Scale Sizes: From 1:144 to 1:32

A historical collector’s guide to Corgi Aviation Archive scale sizes, covering early 1:144 releases, classic 1:72 aircraft, modern 1:48 models and rare 1:32 display pieces.          

Corgi Aviation vs Hobby Master: Which Should You Collect?

Compare Corgi and Hobby Master aircraft models, including detail, packaging, display appeal, collectability and what to check when buying pre-owned.

Guide to Other Diecast Aircraft Brands – Century Wings, Gemini & More

Discover other diecast aircraft brands beyond Corgi and Hobby Master, including Century Wings, Gemini Jets, Gemini Aces, JC Wings, Franklin Mint, Witty Wings and Dragon Wings.

Guide to Hobby Master Diecast Aircraft Models – Air Power Series

An introductory guide to Hobby Master’s diecast aircraft range, covering the 1:72 and 1:48 Air Power Series, key features and themes to help collectors understand the brand.

CORGI AVIATION ARCHIVE: A GUIDE TO THE MODEL LINE, SCALES & KEY FEATURES

An introductory guide to Corgi’s Aviation Archive range exploring its history, scales, key features and signature themes to help collectors understand the line.

History Behind Corgi AA38707: Spitfire Mk.XIVc, No. 322 Sqn (1944)

Discover Corgi AA38707 - a 1:72 Spitfire Mk.XIVc RM740 (3W-WI) of No. 322 (Dutch) Sqn at Deanland, England, flying with invasion stripes in Aug 1944 during the D-Day campaign.      

History Behind Corgi AA33318: B-17G “Flak Eater”, 305th BG (1944)

Discover Corgi AA33318 - a 1:72 B-17G “Flak Eater” (44-6009 / WF-J) of the 364th BS, 305th Bomb Group, US 8th Air Force, based in England, Aug 1944.          

History Behind Corgi AA34018: B-24 Liberator “Male Call”, 453rd BG (1944)

Discover Corgi AA34018 - a 1:72 B-24 Liberator “Male Call” of the 453rd Bomb Group, US 8th Air Force, flown in 1944 and linked with Jimmy Stewart.      

History Behind Corgi AA35311: B-25 Mitchell II, No. 226 Sqn (1944)

Discover Corgi AA35311 - a 1:72 B-25 Mitchell II “FW130 / MQ-A” of RAF 226 Squadron, based at Hartford Bridge, Hampshire during the D-Day build-up in June 1944.      

History Behind Corgi AA38507: Bf 110E-2, Schnaufer, NJG 1 (1942)

Discover Corgi AA38507 - a 1:72 Bf 110E-2 “G9+LN” flown by Heinz-Wolfgang Schnaufer, 5./NJG 1, based at St Trond, Belgium in June 1942.      

History Behind Corgi AA33715: Heinkel He 111H-6, 1./KG 26 “1H+BB” (1942)

Discover Corgi AA33715 - a 1:72 Heinkel He 111H-6 “1H+BB” of 1./KG 26, flying from Bardufoss, Norway during Arctic Convoy PQ17 attacks on 5 July 1942 over icy seas.