John Wayne Stagecoach by Franklin Mint.

This John Wayne Stagecoach is a stunning replica of the stagecoach from the John Wayne 1939 film Stagecoach was made by Franklin Mint in the late 1980's / early 1990's and no longer available. The main difference being this is a 4-horse team whereas in the film it was a 6-horse team. I don't know why Franklin Mint did this, maybe cost, or it would be just too long. The base measures 25" by 7" and the stagecoach is 6½" high and 10" long.

A similar rig was still available in the USA and is called the Wells Fargo Overland Stagecoach and 4-Horse Team, and both items are sold separately. The Wells Fargo coach rig is red and the horses are slightly different to the John Wayne rig.

The John Wayne Stagecoach is diecast and the detail is stunning and every intricate detail is reproduced, with real leather seats and roller shutters. The doors, which have a small picture of Duke on his horse, open. There are also a number of pieces of baggage, including a Wells Fargo strongbox and a case with the initials "JW" on it. There are 3 shotguns and one large-loop rifle. The wagon wheel brake lever works as well. The model is fitted with a steering arrangement. The front wheels turn on a central pivot of the stagecoach undercarriage.

The John Wayne Stagecoach horses are made from Tesori Porcelain, a mix of resin and powdered porcelain, and was used a lot by Franklin Mint for its figures. The horses are fixed to the display base and have wires running through their legs that attach them to the base. This makes them vulnerable to damage especially when in transit.

The reins and bars that would hold the horses together and to the stage and fixed to the display base.

This John Wayne Stagecoach came with a Certificate of Authenticity and Care Documents. It sold in the USA for almost $400 when available (and about £300-£400 in the UK. If anyone can recall the exact amount please let me know).

This amazing John Wayne Stagecoach collectible rarely appears now and may often have parts missing or damage, or just in poor condition after years of being on display gathering dust. Repairs to the horses can be done and should not be beyond the abilties of a good model maker.

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