Matchbox 1989 Chevrolet Corvette (C3 late generation) Appraisal
Category: Toy Vehicle
Description
This item is a miniature die-cast metal model of a Chevrolet Corvette. It is approximately 3 inches in length and crafted primarily from blue-painted metal with a black plastic base and silver-painted plastic wheels with a black five-spoke design. The roof and rear section appear to have a silver or light grey finish, possibly plastic or painted metal. "CORVETTE" is printed in white lettering on the side of the vehicle, just above the black running board. Visible condition issues include several areas of paint chipping and wear, particularly on the edges and raised surfaces. The wheels and tires seem to be intact, although the grip of the tires on the surface is not discernible from the image. The scale is consistent with popular die-cast toy car brands. Based on the style and design, it appears to represent a late C3 generation Chevrolet Corvette, manufactured between 1978 and 1982. The context provided indicates it is a 1989 Matchbox, suggesting it was produced by Matchbox International Ltd. or a related entity in 1989, making it a vintage toy. There are no visible manufacturing stamps or marks in the provided image that can confirm the maker, year, or model number. The craftsmanship appears to be typical of mass-produced die-cast toy cars from this era.
Appraisal Report
Having examined the provided image of the 1989 Matchbox Chevrolet Corvette, I can provide an appraisal based on visible characteristics and the information given. The item appears to be a standard issue Matchbox vehicle from 1989, depicting a late C3 Corvette. The blue paint with silver/grey roof and black base aligns with typical releases of this era. The "CORVETTE" tampo print on the side is visible. Condition is the primary factor impacting value here; there are significant areas of paint chipping and wear, particularly on edges and raised surfaces, consistent with playwear. While the structure seems intact and the wheels are present, the cosmetic condition is quite poor. Market conditions for common Matchbox models in well-played-with condition are generally low. This is a mass-produced item, and while representing a popular vehicle, neither the model nor the apparent release year (1989) is considered rare or highly sought after by collectors unless in near-mint or mint condition, preferably with original packaging. Demand for played-with examples is driven mainly by nostalgia or casual collecting. Based on the visible condition, this example falls into the "played with" or "fair" category. For full authentication of the specific model number, scale accuracy, and exact year of production within the 1989 range (variations sometimes occurred), an in-person examination would be necessary. Visibility of baseplate markings for copyright, model number, and country of origin would be crucial for a definitive assessment. Provenance documentation (e.g., original purchase receipts, packaging) would also strengthen authenticity and condition claims. Without these, the appraisal is based solely on the visible characteristics in the picture and the stated information. The condition significantly limits its value.
Appraisal Value
$2 - $5