MAC Forum

The U.S. manufacturer Irwin made some very nice helicopter toys over the years.

I posted a few a while back under the Batcopter post link:

viewtopic.php?f=32&t=1245&p=6136&hilit=irwin#p6136

Recently, I picked up another rare survivor that was released under a previously-unknown-to-me "Motorcade Wheel Toys" line. Once again, the helicopter is modeled after the Sikorsky S-51 and is very similar to the "Build-Your-Own Helicopter" kit released in 1953.

By the way, I was able to find the patent for the toys, submitted in 1953 and finally approved in 1956, online.

I think the display box for this toy is really attractive. Also of interest are some markings which, I believe, reference the type of plastic used. There's a strong-man logo with "Steel Strong" and "Ivilan 77"" on the box.

The helicopter is nearly 15 inches long and 5 inches tall. An impressive toy!

Here's a photo:

Here's the aforementioned 27-piece "Build-Your-Own Helicopter kit:

Mark,

The Irwin toy was molded in a few different colors too. I have a Black one and a Blue one. I have also seen a red one and a Tan one.

Regards,

Mike

Toyplaneguy wrote:Mark,

The Irwin toy was molded in a few different colors too. I have a Black one and a Blue one. I have also seen a red one and a Tan one.

Regards,

Mike

I don't think I've seen the tan version of the Build-Your-Own helicopter kit. Thanks for pointing that out.

There is also an unusual silver (it almost looks like chrome) version that appears to have been released later in a more plain, utilitarian cardboard box.