283 Single Decker Bus (1971-77)

I recently added the unrealistic metallic red version of this bus to my collection, joining the regular red versions with blue and yellow interiors. The addition came in a lot that also included a 'Green Line' version. Presumably built up from the kit version, this had been excellently painted, including a finish on the white baseplate that was indistinguishable from the originals finished at Binns Road. The Green Line version was to have been issued by the factory as no. 292, per a 1977 catalog, but never appeared. In the Dinky Toys Encyclopedia, it's stated that one turned up on sale in a toy shop in Wales. Perhaps Jacques will see this and comment further? It seems very odd that if that one was genuine, no other samples have ever turned up. I could have believed that the one I obtained was original, so well done is it. But the 'tell' is that the headlights have been silvered with the tip of a brush, instead of via a mask as the factory would have done.

700 239 kit 700 371292 - production model Johnny The Single deck bus from the kit has a very different green from the production one, they can not be mistaken. The 292 is owned first hand by a very reputable DTCA member. You may have the second original model.