WS397 Kursk Tiger Review

KING AND COUNTRY WS397

Overview

Introduction to the model
Detailed specifications
Battle of Kursk historical context
Collector‑oriented notes

The King & Country WS397 “Kursk Tiger” Hull #S33 limited edition model offers collectors a striking rendition of the Panzerkampfwagen VI tank deployed by the SS Division Das Reich during the pivotal Battle of Kursk. Released in November–December 2023 and retired shortly thereafter, this die‑cast metal miniature stands out with its meticulous camouflage variation from its sibling WS396, movable tracks, functional suspension, and inclusion of two distinct crew figures. Limited to just 250 pieces and accompanied by a numbered certificate and premium presentation box, it promises both authenticity and exclusivity.

Historical Background

The Panzerkampfwagen VI “Tiger I” was designed to counter the heavily armored Soviet defenses encountered following Germany’s invasion of the USSR in June 1941. At Kursk in July 1943, during Operation Citadel, the SS Panzergrenadier Division Das Reich fielded its heavy tank company—including a pair of Tigers like Hull #S33—within the II SS Panzer Corps in the southern assault sector of the Kursk salient. These Tigers were painted in a two‑colour camouflage of Dunkelgelb and Olivgrün, intended to blend with Eastern Front terrain. Despite their formidable 88mm KwK 36 main guns and thick frontal armor, German forces failed to break through Soviet layered defenses.

The Soviet counteroffensive not only repelled the assault but marked a major turning point: Kursk became the last strategic German offensive on the Eastern Front. Consequently, Tigers like the one represented by Hull #S33 symbolize both technological might and the limits thereof in a shifting war.

Collector Notes

Identification: WS397 (also marked WS397(SE)) denotes the second variant of the Kursk Tiger limited to 250 pieces worldwide (sagerssoldiers.com). Check for the two‑colour camouflage pattern unique to Das Reich, varied from the earlier WS396 Hull #S32 (sagerssoldiers.com). Packaging & Certificate: Comes in a full‑colour presentation box with a numbered certificate; verify number out of 250 (sagerssoldiers.com). Material and Features: All‑metal die‑cast hull, turret, and gun; moving flexible metal tracks; rolling wheels with full suspension; four opening hatches; two unique crew figures (sagerssoldiers.com). Scale & Dimensions: Approximately 1:30 scale, around 11″ long and 4″ tall (historicaviation.com). Release & Retirement: Released November–December 2023; now retired (themilitaryworkshop.com).

Market Value: Originally priced at US$499; secondary‑market prices typically range higher depending on certificate number and condition. Condition Tips: Look for crisp paint variations between #S32 and #S33; ensure tracks roll freely and hatches open without bending; check for any casting flash on edges. Variants: The main variant is the unique camouflage pattern and crew figures; other Kursk Tiger (WS396) differs in camo layout. Packaging Condition: Collectors prize intact original boxes and certificates. Overall, the WS397 Hull #S33 stands as a standout in modern King & Country offerings with historical fidelity and collector desirability.