Morestone 'Esso' Petrol Pump Series
No.12 Volkswagen Micro Bus
One of Morestone's more successful 'Esso' models, No.12 Volkswagen Micro Bus had a long production life being re-issued twice after the Petrol Pump Series was discontinued.
The vehicle it was based on was the split-screen VW dating from the mid-1950's. Manufactured for Morestone by Modern Products Ltd., the model incorporated a full compliment of side windows and one at the rear.
The 'Esso' version of the VW Micro Bus was painted tan-brown with silver trim on the headlights, front bumper, and VW logo. Later issues included pale and metallic blue colours but these did not appear in Petrol Pump boxes. More details are on the Budgie Miniatures No.12 VW Micro Bus page.
The black base was either shiny or matt and had 'Volkswagen Micro Bus' and 'Made in England' cast on it with 'No.12' at the rear. It was fixed in place by four tabs which fitted into holes in the sides of the body.
After trying out various wheel designs on previous models, Morestone fitted standard unpainted metal ones on the VW Bus using flat-head and crimped axles.
Because of its popularity, No.12 VW Micro Bus appeared in several types of 'Esso' boxes. It is a common model and widely found although because of the VW connection it still holds its value.
No.12 Volkswagen Micro Bus - Summary
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Issued in Esso Series : 1957-59
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Re-issued by Budgie : 1960-1970
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Length : 61mm
Esso Boxes
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Esso (large font & number) Garage Offer on base flap, Garage Coupon
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Esso (large font & number) Offer overstamped, Garage (later Tanker) Coupon
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Esso (large font & number) Number on base flap, Tanker Coupon
Esso Model
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TAN body, silver trim, gloss or matt BLACK base, umw
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Details of later versions, boxes and packs on Budgie Miniatures pages