Rare John Deere toy collection to go under the hammer
© Cheffins More than 500 John Deere toy tractors and implements from one of the UK’s largest collections are set to go under the hammer next month.
Retired building surveyor Peter Green, 77, from Saffron Walden, Essex, built up the collection over the past 12 years, at one point owning about 900 models.
See also: Model tractor collection sells for record-breaking prices
He is now selling about half through Cheffins’ Cambridge Vintage Sale on 16 October to focus on other areas of his collection.
The sale includes 1:16 scale models of American John Deere tractors and implements, including rare and custom-built examples.
Many were produced by farm toy manufacturer ERTL, alongside models from Spec Cast, Gilson Riecke and Nolt.
Among the custom models are a John Deere 425 Hay Cuber, Number 22 Cotton Picker and an early engine-powered wire-tying mobile baler.
Mr Green said: “Like most schoolboys, I had been interested in tractors from a very young age.
“I visited the Royal Show in the 1960s and started collecting tractor leaflets and pamphlets.”
Unusual models
His toy collection took off after he contacted a dealer in Indiana, US, who helped him source unusual models, including specialist gold editions.
Some of the most valuable lots include a bespoke John Deere 8650 Kinze conversion, John Deere 4520 V8 with twin rear wheels, and a modern John Deere 9RX830.
Each is estimated to be worth £300-£500.
Cheffins associate Ted Shepherd said: “Collections of this quality and scale rarely come to the market, and we expect there to be considerable interest from collectors both in the UK and internationally.”
All lots will be offered without reserve.
Mr Green plans to reinvest the proceeds in his 1:32 scale John Deere collection and Caterpillar earthmoving models.
