Corgi AA34002 Consolidated B-24D Liberator Diecast Model USAAF 93rd BG, 328th BS, #42-40128 "Ball of Fire The III", Ploesti Raid, August 1943

Corgi Aviation Archive Collector Series AA34002 Consolidated B-24D Liberator Diecast Model USAAF 93rd BG, 328th BS, #42-40128 "Ball of Fire The III", Ploesti Raid, August 1943

In December 1939, the B-24 Liberator was first flown to meet the need of the United States Army Air Corps for a heavy bomber. The design was created by Consolidated, who was originally asked to build the B-17 under license. However, the company chose to submit a more modern design with greater speed, range and bomb capacity. Although the B-24 had these advantages, it was more difficult to fly, had poor formation-flying characteristics, and was more vulnerable to battle damage. This meant that it never became the favored bomber among American aircrews, but it was still very useful, especially for long-range missions.

Corgi's 1:72 scale B-24 series includes the early war B-24D and late war B-24H and B-24J variants, all of which feature a nose gun turret and retractable ball turret. These WWII heavy bombers are some of the most sought after diecast models available in 1:72 scale. The large size and spot-on recreation of the Liberator's distinctive shape has led to this mold's popularity, along with subtle details such as simulated fabric control surfaces. The mold incorporates a large number of diecast components, and includes a heavily constructed all-metal display stand to support this massive aircraft for in-flight display.

Corgi's "Aviation Archive" range offers highly-detailed, pre-made diecast models of military and civilian aircraft. Each Corgi model is based on a specific aircraft from an important historical or modern era of flight and has been authentically detailed from original documents and archival library material. The range honors famous airplanes and aviators from both military and commercial airline aviation.

Corgi "Aviation Archive" diecast airplanes feature diecast metal construction with some plastic components, realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels, and surface details, pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals, interchangeable extended/retracted landing gear with rotating wheels, poseable presentation stands to display the aircraft "in flight," and authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards. They also include detailed, hand-painted pilot and crew member figures, selected interchangeable features such as speed-brakes, opened canopies and access panels, and selected moving parts such as gun turrets, control surfaces, and swing-wings. Many limited editions come with a numbered certificate of authenticity.