The toy models in these display cases were donated by Miamisburg native Allen Jones and are representative of his 40+ years of collecting. There are pewter and cast-iron models too. Many cast-iron toys were used for door stops because of their weight. The models represent the evolution of transportation from animal powered vehicles and farm equipment, to steam and gas-powered cars, trucks, and trains.

Diecast toys grew in popularity through the 1950s as their level of detail and quality increased. More companies entered the field, including successful brands like Italian Mercury, Danish Tekno, or German Schuco and Gama Toys. Corgi Toys, produced by Mettoy, appeared in 1956 and pioneered auto interiors and windows in their models.

In 1968, Mattel introduced Hot Wheels in the United States. They looked fast and were fast because they were equipped with low-friction wheels/axels. The cars were created to address the complaint that Mattel had nothing for boys to balance their line of Barbie dolls for girls. Hot Wheels quickly became the most popular diecast cars in the toy market, and one of the world’s top sellers, challenging the popularity of Matchbox.

Since 2009, the Diecast Hall of Fame has inducted designers, industry executives and others who have made major contributions to the industry.