Issued 1959-1960    Length 115mm     'OO/HO' scale (1:76)

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From Dinky to Benbros, diecast toymakers in the 1950's usually included military items in their ranges and the Centurion Tank was probably the most common model produced. Britains issued their Lilliput model later than some but it was a good representation of the real vehicle and made a substantial toy.

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It was constructed in three main parts, the main body, a gun turret and barrel, and a shaped base. The body casting included simulated tracks so Britains added four plastic wheels to the base to enable the tank to move. The turret was secured by a central axle and turned in a full 360 degrees.

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Painted in a semi-matt Army green with, on some models, a Star decal applied to the turret, the Tank was finished with silver trim added to the tip of the gun barrel. Underneath, the base was painted matt-black and had a large central hole to enable the turret axle to be secured. 'Britains Ltd' and 'England' were included at either end of the base and on some models 'Centurion Tank' was also included. 

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The plastic wheels, which fitted inside the base, were usually pale grey-brown in colour and were unique to this model.

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As with other military items, LV/610 was sold in an open fronted display box with an inner diorama packing piece to which the tank was secured. The model details and number were printed on one of the end-flaps. 

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Mint examples of the Lilliput Centurion Tank are not easy to find although it is not an uncommon model. It was included in the modern-style L/15 Centurion Display Set in 1960 but this and the open fronted box are rare items.