Is it a Find!?

Hi Dan, This 5-1/2" long, red metal car was in a box with other childhood toys of my husband (born 1940). On the bottom of the car are the words "MADE IN US-ZONE GERMANY", SCHUCO PATENT- AUTO 4001" and "SCHUCO Examico 4001". The outside lever below the windshield makes the attached key turn. You have written helpful information for me twice before. I would be grateful for any additional information about this car, including its possible value. Thank you, KNS, Peterborough Hello KNS, Your husband's Schuco car was made in Germany during the early 1950's and is a model of an early BMW convertible. Schuco is known for producing a variety of well-engineered diecast collectible toys, such as cars, airplanes, and animals. The brand name "Schuco" derives from the company, which was founded by Heinrich Müller and Heinrich Schreyer in 1912, the original name being "Schreyer & Co." It was not until the late 1930s that the brand name evolved to "Schuco." The company originally manufactured tin toys, and in the 1930s, they found their niche in ingeniously engineered toy cars that featured wind-up mechanisms and unique steering capabilities. One of their most notable innovations was the patented "Schuco Patent Auto," which could perform complex maneuvers, such as turning corners or doing figure eights. Your husband's model is noted with the same patent on the base of the car. The company is still manufacturing diecast and model cars today. Your husband's car looks to be in amazing condition and most importantly it has its original box, which is scarce because it is often discarded. To the right collector it could bring upwards of $180. I appreciate the question and look forward to others you have.