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I now code all my Matchbox Regular Series 1-75 models against the Stannard's Collectors Catalogue [ISBN 0-9510367-O-X] which covers the years 1953 to 1969 and is based on Stannard's extensive knowledge of the 1-75 series, contributions from Ray Bush, Phillip Bowdidge, Robert Newson and Paul Carr, and the access, granted to him by Matchbox, to Matchbox Toys Limited's archives and production collection. Wherever possible I will also include the relevant reference obtained from Schiffer's Matchbox Toys [ISBN 0-916838-74-9] and other major reference publications. I also use Nick Jones' excellent site to further refine the codings – these codes are identified by the use of [NJ] alongside them.
This is the Lesney produced Matchbox MB48-a-2 Meteor Sportsman Mk2 boat & Trailer in light tan and mid blue.
| Stannard Code: | 48-a-2 |
| Schiffer Code: | 48-a-2 |
| Nick Jones Code: | [NJ]48-a-5 |
| Body Colour: | Light Tan and Mid Blue |
| Glazing: | None |
| Trim: | None |
| Base Type: | technically none, boat base is blue metal and trailer is black metal |
| Base Details: | No casting variations to the boat. The underside of the hull is marked on 2 lines either side of the keel: Meteor, Sportsman Mk II AND on 4 lines, at right angles parallel with the rear of the boat: Made in, England, By Lesney, No 48. The trailer has no markings but has 3 braces on the underside, one on each of the "chassis" rails. |
| Base Fitting: | None - the two halves of the boat are press-fitted together and the trailer is a one piece casting. |
| Wheels: | Grey metal 7.5mm x 18 tread, dome head and crimped axles |
| Interior: | None - the deck and seating are a cast metal component |
| Issued: | 1958 to 1961 in Regular series |
Item: 3700