Box Types 1953-1969

Typ

Year

Discription

Picture

A

1953-1954

The first series of Matchbox boxes is provided with the imprint “MoKo” in script font. Only the first seven models of the A-series were offered in this box. "MoKo" derives from Moses Kohnstamm, who accompanied the early years of Lesney Products. Boxes of this type are rare and difficult to obtain.

B1

1954-1957

For the reasons of readability, the word “MoKo” appeared in the second edition in plain text. The print seemed a bit “nicer” and not as “smeared”.
The first Accessory Pack : "ESSO PETROL PUMPS & SIGN" was delivered in this box.

B2

1957-1959

The model number was printed in black an the sideflap. The storage on the shelf proved effecive, as the models were found faster.

Other series : Acceccory Pack

B3

1959-

Very quickly, the developers have noticed that black writing on darkblue background was not their best idea.
Therefor, the modelnumber is now shown in a white cirkel.

Other series : Major Pack

B4

1959-

Through the further development and „modernization“ within the individual model series, several different models were found under the same serial number. ( 1 – 75 )
For this reason, the model name had to be clearly visible.

Other series : Major Pack
 

B5

1959-1961

This was the last edition of boxes using the suffix „MOKO“. The model name is printed in white letters. The rest of the design remaind unaltered.

Other series : Major Pack

C

1961-1962

The C Box was designed in the same style as the B5 Box. The suffix “MOKO” was omitted. When all the boxes have been produced, the imitation of the rough surface of a matchbox was printed in brown. So the boxes A – C are called : “Striker”.

Other series : Major Pack

D

1962-1966

The appearance of the colored picture box! In the first edition, the model name on the side flap has been printed in the font “Seriffs”, later in block letters. Unfortunately, it was also omitted to imitate the “Striker”. The top and bottom sides were made uniform blue.

Other series : Major Pack

E1

1964-1966

The name "Matchbox" on the image side is now shown as single line. Among them significantly smaller "Series". On the side tabs are now located the model number and model name. For promotional reasons, often also the message: "NEW MODEL". Hence the name: "New Model Box"!
Other series: Major Pack

E2

1966-1967

The same layout as in the E1 box. In addition, the special features of the model are highlighted on the sideflaps by a white circle.

E3

1966-1970

During this period, the model number is shown in yellow on the side flaps. The dark blue was replaced by the friendly light blue color.

E4

1967-1970

The Signature "Matchbox" was printed from now on above the image of the model on the side flaps. The yellow model number is now printed into the lower left corner.

F1

1968-

The "Matchbox" lettering runs henceforth straightforward. Top right on the image side is the model number on a blue background. Among the note "Series". The background of the page tabs change to yellow with a light blue border. The model number will be displayed in red letters.

F2

-1970

The note "Series" has left the blue box and is printed now in red capital letters right under the name "matchbox". The following "Superfast Boxes" get instead of the name: "A LESNEY PRODUCTS" now the line: "Lesney Products Co. LTD London England"