Lead Toy Soldiers Appraisal

Vintage Lead Toy Soldiers (British Infantry)

This collection consists of multiple vintage lead or cast metal toy soldier figurines, likely depicting British Foot Guards or similar infantry, given their iconic red tunics and black headwear (bearskins). Each figure stands on a flat, rectangular green base. The soldiers are uniformly painted in red for their coats, black for trousers and headwear, and some details such as belts or straps in white or black lines. The figures are roughly 2-3 inches tall with varying poses, some holding rifles. The paint exhibits significant wear, flaking, and loss, revealing the underlying dark metal in many areas, particularly on the backs and arms of the figures. Some figures show more extensive paint degradation and minor areas of rust or oxidation, indicating age and handling. This wear contributes to a desirable patina for collectors. The casting quality appears consistent with early to mid-20th-century craftsmanship for toy soldiers. While no specific maker's marks or stamps are discernible from the provided images, the style suggests a manufacturer such as Britains, C.B.G. Mignot, or similar European makers. The set appears to be from the early 20th century, possibly interwar period or slightly earlier.