MODELS from the 1900s that have been kept hidden in an old cardboard box will be up for auction in Runcorn on Monday – and their estimated value is up to £15,000

On Monday, November 18, a set of extremely rare’ figures from the 1900’s will be coming up for auction.

A few weeks ago, British Toy Auctions, which is based on Manor Park in Runcorn, collected a range of vintage toys and models that had been stored for many years in Manchester.

But, to their surprise, an old and tatty cardboard box contained more than a cataloguer could have imagined.

Inside were Edwardian family models, which were made by Britains, comprising of a mother and father sitting in armchairs, a baby and a son and daughter.

These models date back to 1907 and has been deemed an ‘extremely rare’ find, as it was previously believed only one complete set was still in existence.

The estimated value of the models is between £10,000 and £15,000 and they will be up for auction next week.

“This is a truly important find, and one which is certain to command a high volume of international interest from collectors,” said Michael Bain, head auctioneer at British Toy Auctions.