Dan Brown's 300-plus die-cast trucks are sure to impress collectors and auto enthusiasts alike.

Photo: Dan Brown

My die-cast truck collection

I started collecting die-cast model trucks and cars after receiving my first Canadian Tire collectible from my brother-in-law, Dave, in 1992—I was hooked. Being a letter carrier and delivering to businesses, I’d buy their 1:24 scale models featuring such company names as NAPA, IDA, Watkins, Sears and Home Hardware. I now own 352 models altogether, including the entire collection of Canadian Tire store-issued collectibles, all of their 1:64 scale transports and the JM Schneider collection.

My pride and joy is my Home Hardware collection. After contacting their head office in St. Jacobs, Ontario, I received a list of all the trucks they issued. Since moving to Southern Ontario four years ago, my wife Cheryl (who is just as excited to find a truck as I am) and I have been able to complete almost the entire collection, with the exception of three 1:64 scale trucks. Recently, I acquired a 1:24 scale model of a 1964 baby-blue 40th-anniversary edition Mustang hardtop that I’d been searching for, from a person in Newfoundland. I also acquired the first-ever Home Hardware transport issued in 1975 in its original box. I am thrilled to own it. I found them all by driving to Home Hardware locations in small farming communities, as well as flea markets, toy shows and antique markets. I have also found some on online sites.

In addition, I have a little riding truck that once belonged to my granddaughter, Kirsten, who is now 22! It’s decorated with specially-made decals to look like a Home Hardware truck.

In Cheryl’s opinion, we never really outgrow our love of toys. Now that I’m retired, there’s more time to collect—retirement has its rewards.

Next, check out this impressive teapot collection.