W. Britain was not the first to manufacture toy soldiers but they certainly took off and overshadowed competition in 1893 and still do today. Part of their immediate success came from their method of production. Their signature hollowcast soldiers are hollow in the middle which means that they use less metal and can be sold for a lower price. This value set Britains apart in their early years. Now Britains are known for much more. Some of the classic Britain qualities include attention to detail and historically accurate pieces.
I haven’t been lucky enough to see them in person but here are some pictures of the first ever William Britain Toy Soldier Sets.
The First Life Guards (1893) has five toy soldiers riding horses with swords drawn.
The Royal Horse Guards (1893) has five soldiers mounted on horseback with swords drawn wearing red continental style saddlecloths.
The 5th Dragoon Guards (1893) has five soldiers on horseback all marching in sync.
It's incredible to see how Britains have evolved...and to see where they came from
