Description: Attention, iconic model! Let me explain. Originally, the Mercury company was a metallurgist that manufactured industrial and mechanical components for the automotive industry. For this reason, the Turin-based firm had real expertise in the production of metallurgical alloys, especially Zamac! (which is, let's remember, an alloy of zinc, aluminum, magnesium, and copper.) The particularity of this alloy is that it allows for precise molding, good rigidity, and the reproduction of realistic automotive shapes. From 1945, the end of the war led to a recovery and boom in the toy industry. The directors of the Mercury company therefore had the idea of using zamac scraps from their industrial production to produce miniature toys! They started by making very simple, minimalist, and robust toys. It was just a matter of transforming unused zamac scraps into a small additional financial income. This lasted for a few years. But as early as 1950, the directors realized that there was a market and a place to take. Thus, in the mid-1950s, a strategic turn began. From then on, the company aimed to improve the realism of its car reproductions. Henceforth, the models would have a reference. The wheels, which were very basic in the early 1945s, were replaced by painted steel rims, and even equipped with tires. This model is a testament to that era and its realization is an excellent example! The mold is well-crafted. The base is chromed and stamped. The model we offer here is an original. The silvering is superb. And the tires are also original. We will also appreciate Mercury's demanding approach in daring to produce this type of ribbed tire at that time! However, it must be acknowledged that there are slight traces of oxidation, mainly located on the lower edge of the right side of the vehicle. This remains minimal. The model has some chips, but this is compensated by a very beautiful thick paint. Finally, this red color is not so common on this model. This model is a favorite!