A rare survivor from the early days of Meccano, this 1916 oak display cabinet would have been used in shops to hold and display Meccano construction sets. The internal fittings are largely original and include painted metal strips, brackets and fixings, as well as a Meccano manual. With dovetail joinery, and the word “Meccano” stencilled to the base, it’s a superb piece of early 20th-century educational toy history.
Details:
- Era: Early 20th Century (1916)
- Origin: England
- Materials: Oak wood cabinet with metal Meccano components
- Dimensions: Approx. 46.5cm (H) x 43cm (W) x 21.5cm (D)
- Condition notes: Surface wear and age-related marks to the cabinet; internal fittings show signs of use. Overall structurally sound.
- Provenance / Story: Produced during Meccano’s early growth years under Frank Hornby, this display cabinet would have been supplied to toy shops to showcase the Meccano system.
- Care tips: Keep out of direct sunlight. Dust wooden surfaces with a soft dry cloth; avoid moisture on metal parts to prevent rusting.