Canadian. 1946-1948. Pressed steel. This toy is referred to as the "Olsen Label Mystery". The toy has a label that says "Made in Canada Lincoln Toys" which identifies Lincoln toys that were made during the brand's earliest production years (1946-1948) by Windsor Steel Products for Lincoln Specialties Limited. Company records show that there was no official "Olsen" line of Lincoln Toys, and it was not a "private-label" brand made specifically for the Olson company. The dilemma or "Olsen Mystery" is that the W.H. Olsen Mfg. company (a real company) of Tilbury, Ontario, only entered the truck body business in late 1957, around the start of the decline of the Lincoln toy line. This would have left a very narrow window for an official licensed toy line or private label to be produced. In effect, we have an original 1946-1948 Lincoln toy, which was likely purchased, possibly as a single unit or in a lot, by the Olson company at some point prior to 1957. When Olson started the business in 1957, they likely applied their own stickers and used these trucks as promotional gifts. Decalled, "Made In Canada Lincoln Toys "Reg'd"", on rear panel. Labelled, "Lincoln", on cab door. Embossed, "Lincoln Toys Made in Canada", on tires. From the Yvan Lalonde Collection.

Size
6.25" x 5.75" x 15".

Condition
Excellent condition. Original paint and "Lincoln Toys" decals. Minor oxidation to front bumper. Pinpoint paint nicks to front of cab.

Medium
Pressed steel.

Signature
Decalled, "Made In Canada Lincoln Toys "Reg'd"", on rear panel. Labelled, "Lincoln", on cab door. Embossed, "Lincoln Toys Made in Canada", on tires.

Provenance
From the Yvan Lalonde Collection.