Canadian. 1949-Early 1950s. Pressed steel. The "Minniconstruction Company 217" toy was part of Otaco's early "phantom company" series of toys. Toys like this one, used a phantom company ("Minniconstruction Company") and model number ("217"), which predated Otaco's shift to using real-world private labels (like Shell or BA) on their trucks. The fictional brand incorporated the "Minni" prefix from their toy brand name, Minnitoys. While the broader Minnitoys line began production in 1946, the phantom series was not introduced until 1949. Labelled, "Canadian Made Minnitoys by Otaco Limited Orilia Ontario", on cab doors. Embossed, "Minitoys [sic] Otaco Ltd. Orillia Canada Made in Canada", on tires. From the Yvan Lalonde Collection.

Size
6.5" x 7" x 16".

Condition
Very good condition. Original paint and decals. Minor paint nicks and some wear to edges and corners. Oxidation to front trim and grille.

Medium
Pressed steel.

Signature
Labelled, "Canadian Made Minnitoys by Otaco Limited Orilia Ontario", on cab doors. Embossed, "Minitoys [sic] Otaco Ltd. Orillia Canada Made in Canada", on tires.

Provenance
From the Yvan Lalonde Collection.