DD045 SHERMAN 105 BY KING & COUNTRY (RETIRED)
Overview
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Introduction
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History Section – Sherman 105 in Normandy D‑Day
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Collector Notes
King & Country’s DD045 Sherman 105 is a finely detailed 1:30 scale model of the late‑war M4A3 Sherman mounting a 105 mm howitzer, released in November 2003 and retired by September 2006. This model includes three crew figures and numerous stowage items, including a fully elevating gun, cast in lead/tin alloy and polystone with factory paintwork. It highlights both the celebrated design of the Sherman and K&C’s craftsmanship—making it especially appealing to collectors of D‑Day ’44 American forces.
Historical Background
The M4A3 Sherman fitted with a 105 mm howitzer played a pivotal role on D‑Day, June 6, 1944, by providing close‑support fire for Allied infantry during the Normandy landings. These assault guns often accompanied armored units onto Sword, Gold, Omaha, Utah, and Juno beaches. They used high‑explosive and HEAT rounds to suppress enemy strongpoints and anti‑tank defenses. With US forces using the 105‑armed Shermans during Operation Overlord, their lower velocity but high‑power HE shells wreaked havoc among German fortifications when used at short range. The Sherman’s robust chassis, reliable Continental powerplant (in A3 variants), and ease of repair under fire contributed to its effectiveness in the bocage terrain of Normandy.
Opposing German forces deployed Panthers, Tigers, and 75 mm‑armed Shermans, making the 105’s firepower essential in neutralizing entrenched defenses despite lacking long‑range punch. Overall, the Sherman 105s helped establish bridgeheads and enabled inland advances through aggressive direct‑fire support at the critical early stages of the Western Front campaign.
Collector Notes
Identification of DD045 is straightforward: look for the serial DD045 on packaging or catalog listings as part of the D‑Day ’44 Americans series (lastdodo.com). The model is 1:30 scale, made of lead/tin alloy and polystone, and features factory paint (lastdodo.com). Released November 2003 and retired September 2006, surviving boxed versions command secondary‑market prices between approximately USD 450 for mint condition and around USD 89 in earlier listings, though prices vary considerably (sagerssoldiers.com). Collector tips include checking the elevating gun mechanism and presence of three crew figures plus stowage; missing items or chipped paint significantly reduce value. Packaging variants seem limited to the standard boxed set; incomplete sets or repainted models fetch less.
Panels and stowage may loosen over time—secure these during display. Overall, fully‑boxed, factory‑painted examples in excellent condition are most sought after.
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