Models of Yesteryear Y-18/2; 1918 Atkinson Model D Steam Wagon

Box notes: "This model is based on the Atkinson Steam Wagon which was first produced in 1916 and steadily developed up to 1924 Its engine was a twin cylinder double acting type, developing 70 horsepower at 300 rpm (makers’ figures) giving this wagon a maximum speed of 12 mph when fully laden. The Cement Marketing Company owned a large fleet of Atkinsons in the early twenties and during this period three won 1st prize in Concourses held by The Commercial Motor magazine"

The wagon was released by Lesney in 1985 and the first to be made were green with a red chassis sign written for Lake Goldsmith sand & gravel, next came the yellow version in Blue Circle cement livery. The early ones of these were in a pale yellow with poorly tampo printed pin striping on the cab, they all have a break in the line on the leading corners of the cab. They eventually got the colour right by adding a second coat and also sorted out the printing problem. The next release was a brewer's dray for Bass & Co in blue with a black chassis and a red engine. The load being nicely detailed with large beer barrels and chains around the load bed. The final version was red in the colours of Burghfield Mills with a load of lurid yellow flour sacks.

Since then the casting has been re-released several times in Matchbox Collectibles series and is very popular with code 3 modellers