Toysoldiers
All older miniatures were once intended as toys, but
some manufacturers merit a specific mention in this category. Old miniatures
were mainly made of lead and iron. In continental Europe these were almost
always solid. In England they were usually hollow. Brands include W. Britain
from England, Heyde from Germany and Mignot from France. The best original
antique figures can nowadays be bought more or less exclusively in auctions. ‘Toy
figures' are still being made, although no longer primarily to be played with.
