KING & COUNTRY EA001 EIGHTH ARMY SCOTTISH PATROL
Overview
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Introduction to the set
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Historical background: Scottish in Eighth Army North Africa
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Collector notes
The King & Country EA001 “Eighth Army Scottish Patrol” is a finely rendered World War II single-figure set in 1:30 (approximately 60 mm) scale, released in 2002 and officially retired by mid‑2006. This richly detailed, factory‑painted lead‑tin alloy miniature depicts a Scottish infantryman of the British Eighth Army in North Africa. For instance, action‑figure collectors gain authenticity through the oval profiled base and accurate North Africa theatre attire. The set includes a Bren gunner, an NCO with a Tommy gun and 2 infantrymen with Lee Enfield rifles in a relaxed patrolling stance. The figure commands attention in any North African diorama or collection.
Historical Background
The miniature portrays a Scottish infantryman from the British Eighth Army, specifically likely drawn from units such as the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders or 51st (Highland) Division, who served prominently in the North African campaign. From 1941 into early 1943, the Eighth Army—including famed Desert Rats formations—fought against Axis forces led by Rommel across Libya and Egypt, culminating at El Alamein in October–November 1942. Scottish units wore standard Battle Dress, with some retaining traditional Tam o’Shanter bonnets or unit specific insignia before kilt use waned in active theatre, though their distinctive heritage persisted in badges and tartan flashes.
Their role was vital in resistance and offensive actions such as Operation Crusader, and contributed heavily to the turning of the tide at El Alamein. Overall, Scottish infantry brought tenacity and tradition into the desert war, helping push Axis forces westward to victory.
Collector Notes
Identification: The EA001 figure appears in King & Country’s British Eighth Army line, cast in lead‑tin alloy and hand‑painted, with oval‑profiled base marking in 1:30 scale; released 2002, retired August 2006 (lastdodo.com). Packaging: typically sold in blister card or small box with EA001 SKU. Variants: None known beyond factory painting. Condition notes: Look for paint loss on uniform and face, and ensure base hasn’t chips. Since retired, secondary‑market price hovers around USD 120, though condition and completeness may fluctuate values (michtoy.com). Overall, this piece makes a standout addition to Eighth Army or North Africa collections, particularly for those emphasizing Highland units.
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