{"product_id":"original-u-s-inter-war-period-1920-patent-renault-ft-17-windup-tank-children-s-toy-with-box-by-structo-manufacturing-company-of-freeport-illinois-formerly-a-a-f-tank-museum-collection","title":"Original U.S. Inter-War Period 1920 Patent Renault FT-17 Windup Tank Children’s Toy With Box by Structo Manufacturing Company of Freeport, Illinois - Formerly A.A.F. Tank Museum Collection","description":"\u003cp\u003eOriginal Item: Only One Available. This is an exceptional example of a meticulously crafted sheet steel windup tank model toy of the famous Renault FT-17 light tank. The attention to detail is impressive, as the tank is constructed using a combination of various types of steel with mechanical components, which adds a unique touch to the model. The overall design of the tank is mostly accurate and true to the original, with the whole \"turret\" portion able to rotate as well. The craftsmanship is remarkable, and it is evident that the creator took great care in every detail of the model, making it a true work of art. The body of the tank measures 11\" x 4” and sits at 3 ½” tall.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tank came to us from the American Armoured Foundation, Inc. Tank and Ordnance Memorial Museum. The AAF Tank Museum was a living memorial dedicated to the Tank and Cavalry soldiers of the world. Before 1981 some of the artifacts that make up the AAF Tank Museum was a private collection belonging to Mr. William Gasser. Mr. Gasser felt that his collection would be beneficial in educating present and future generations to the sacrifices made and the technologies gained during war. Therefore, in 1981 the AAF Tank Museum was established as a non-profit charitable organization, and Mr. Gasser's donated his private collection to the Tank Museum. Mr. Gasser is still active as Volunteer Director and Curator of the Tank Museum and his knowledge of military history has been a great asset to the museum. Unfortunately after 20 years of operation it had to close its doors, which is when this tank was acquired.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Renault FT was a French light tank that was among the most revolutionary and influential tank designs in history. The FT was the first production tank to have its armament within a fully rotating turret. The Renault FT's configuration (crew compartment at the front, engine compartment at the back, and main armament in a revolving turret) became and remains the standard tank layout. Consequently, some armoured warfare historians have called the Renault FT the world's first modern tank.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis example is in immaculate condition for being over 100 years old. The mechanics still function properly with no signs of having been repaired.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA great example of a homefront toy that comes more than ready for further research and display. \u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Original Items","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41152832045125,"sku":"ONJR24TMF062","price":895.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1524\/1342\/files\/ONJR24TMF062__01.jpg?v=1710787710","url":"https:\/\/www.ima-usa.com\/products\/original-u-s-inter-war-period-1920-patent-renault-ft-17-windup-tank-children-s-toy-with-box-by-structo-manufacturing-company-of-freeport-illinois-formerly-a-a-f-tank-museum-collection","provider":"International Military Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}