Corgi Studebaker Golden Hawk, model 211S issued in 1960 and deleted in 1966. As issued the car was gold and white with seats, steering wheel and glidamatic suspension. This car was originally issued in 1958 in two versions.

Corgi toys began production after World War Two. Its parent company was Mettoy, established by the Ullmann family who had fled Nazi Germany. The Corgi range of die-cast cars was launched in 1956. The introduction of these led to a great expansion of the company. Corgi used clear moulded plastic for its windows and windscreens, which contributed to the cars' eye-catching appeal.

Corgi also produced more exotic cars rather than models of British cars and this was another advantage for the company. The Studebaker Golden Hawk was one of its first successes and Corgi continued to look for 'exciting' cars for its miniatures.

In 1959 Corgi introduced suspension to its models and in 1960 produced the Aston Martin DB4 with a hinged bonnet revealing the engine inside. Developments in the 1960s included opening doors, glidamatic spring suspension and jewelled headlights.

The company was taken over by Mattel in 1989.

Burton, Anthony. Children's pleasures: books, toys and games from the Bethnal Green Museum of Childhood, London: V & A Publications, 1996

Gardiner, Gordon. The collector's all-colour guide to toy cars: an international survey of tinplate and diecast cars, from 1900 to the present day, Sydney: Hodder and Stoughton, 1985

Jaffe, Deborah. The history of toys: from spinning tops to robots, Stroud [England]: Sutton, 2006

Thompson, Frank. The Corgi toy price guide, London: Black, 1986

Thompson, G. M. K. British diecasts: a collectors guide to 'toy' cars, vans & trucks, [Yeovil]: Foulis, 1980

Corgi: About us

Hampshire Museums Services: Childhood collection. A brief history of toys. Models and miniature toys

Powerhouse Museum Collection: search for 'Corgi'