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William Britain

In 1893 William Britain created a pleasingly round, neatly painted, 54mm hollow cast toy soldier. These toy soldiers were revolutionary in design. The fully round figure and crisp painting appealed to boys and the hollow cast production method made them less expensive to make and ship, bringing them within reach of many more young generals.

In 2005 First Gear, another family owned company with a reputation for quality and innovation, much like the original William Britain Company, acquired W. Britain. As we turn a new page in this venerable company’s history we are mindful of the great legacy that must be preserved with our careful stewardship. At the same time First Gear is also well aware that the success of W. Britain is firmly founded on a tradition of innovation, revolutionary thinking and, ultimately, a passion for toy soldiers.

Where has this passion led us? From a new Classic Collection of true 54mm, W. Britain style figures commemorating the British Army to the fuller figure 54mm matte finish World War I range you will notice right away our commitment to the past and consideration of the future. An all new matte finish Agincourt series also debuts with some of the finest English Longbowmen figures ever produced. The popular American Civil War series continues with all new sculpting and super detailed painting with a Jackson in the Valley series. A slight taste of new WWII items is shown – with many more on the way in 2006.