This is the rare late edition in non-metallic finish, often described as toffee gold and it is a fine example in excellent good condition. Everything looks and works fine and it comes in a complete top quality reproduction box by DRRB. Impressive.
The features that distinguish this from the normal run are the colour which is softer in visual texture and the underside of the roof has a pale, matt finish which looks like plastic.
It is the casting version with side lights in the casting. The screens are very clear and undamaged and the paintwork all original. So often these days these models have been either touched up or repaired. There is some wear to the paintwork on the roof.
There is an original baddie - not shown in the photos - and the Instruction Sheet is the blue one shown.
A very much sought-after edition and one of the more valuable Corgi issues, one selling with an original box for £900 at an auction shortly before the date of this listing.
The rivet appears to be damaged but I can warrant that the base has not been removed. There is also poor masking control at the front and rear which leads me to the view that this is an example of someone having a bad day at the factory. indeed, as I also have several models from a relative of a senior design manager at the factory I am wondering whether this was, in fact, ever intended for sale or had a box. It may well be an example of a temporary paint trial which makes it all the more interesting. However, I cannot say one way or the other, except to guarantee its authenticity.