Matchbox is a toy brand which was introduced by Lesney Products in 1953, and is now owned by Mattel, Inc, which purchased the brand in 1997. The brand was given its name because the original die-cast "Matchbox" toys were sold in boxes similar to those in which matches were sold. The brand grew to encompass a broad range of toys, including larger scale die-cast models, plastic model kits, slot car racing, and action figures.
Speciality store for Matchbox collectibles in Berlin, Germany, 2015
A Lesney-era Matchbox "Ford Heavy Wreck Truck"
Models of Yesteryear no. 7: Mercer Raceabout
A Matchbox Ford Transit Supervan II, made from 1987–88
Lesney Products & Co. Ltd. was a British manufacturing company responsible for the conception, manufacture, and distribution of die-cast toys under the "Matchbox" name. The company existed from 1947 until 1982.
Former "Lesney Matchbox Toys" factory pictured in 2009
Conestoga Wagon by Lesney
A Matchbox Volkswagen Camper Van