Corgi Toys is the name of diecast toys produced by the United Kingdom company, Mettoy Playcraft Ltd. Mettoy was founded in 1933 by a German emigrant named Philip Ullmann who was joined by Arthur Katz shortley after. The two teamed up to create toy vehicles. Corgi Toys were launched in the UK in July 1956. The toys were made at a manufacturing plant in Wales for 27 years. The Corgi name comes from the Welsh breed of dog with the same moniker.

The first models that Corgi produced were well-known British vehicles. The 1956 releases included Ford Consul, Austin A50 Cambridge, Morris Cowley, Vauxhall Velox, Rover 90, Riley Pathfinder, Hillman Huskey, Austin Healey 100 and Triumph TR2.

Corgi diecast cars have long been admired and respected in the diecast car industry. The most valuable diecast cars in the Corgi line-up included the James Bond Aston Martin DB5, the Batmobile and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. The Aston Martin remains the top selling toy car ever made.

Corgi then entered into the heavy commercial vehicle diecast sector. In 1957 Corgi released the Carrimore Car Transportor which featured full glazing. The first gift set offered in December 1957 included the car transportor as well as four cars: Austin Cambridge, Jaguar 2.4, Austin Healey and MGA. Other offering included the Carrimore Low Loader, the Euclid TC12 Bulldozer and the Bedford Fuel Tanker.

Corgi Toys have been an important part of the creation and growth of the diecast toys industry.

Corgi Diecast Cars on eBay

James Bond Metal Film Cannister 4 Vehicle Gift Set MIB    US $29.75

1972 Corgi Bertone Shake Dune Buggy Car 392 Box    US $105.00

1970 Corgi Alfa Romeo Pinin Farina P33 Car 380    US $105.00

1970 Corgi Mini Cooper 177 Car 282    US $115.00

1970 Corgi Lancia Fulvia Sport Zagato Car 372    US $115.00

ELVIS PRESLEY MODEL THUNDERBIRD CAR BY CORGI BOXED    US $10.49