EA013 THE MINE SWEEPER BY KING & COUNTRY
Overview
Introduction
Historical context: mines in North Africa WWII
Collector notes on EA013
King & Country’s EA013 “The Mine Sweeper” presents a finely detailed 1:30 scale set capturing Royal Engineers amid mine-clearing operations in the North African campaign. Released in May 2006 and retired in August 2008, this set includes three figures—an officer holding a map and Tommy gun, flanked by two sappers handling enemy mines—plus two wooden German “Minen” signs. Cast in lead-tin alloy with factory-applied paint, it aligns with the British Eighth Army series and offers strong desert-era character representation. The packaging retains classic King & Country styling, making it appealing for collectors seeking authenticity.
Historical Background
During World War II’s North African campaign (circa 1940–1943), the Western Desert saw extensive deployment of anti‑tank and anti‑personnel mines by both Axis and Allied forces. The British Eighth Army, under commanders such as General Bernard Montgomery from late 1942, increasingly relied on Royal Engineers to clear minefields, enabling armored advances across Libya and into Tunisia. Using manual probing, mine detectors, and controlled explosions, sappers removed enemy-laid mines, often marked with improvised signage in German or Italian—evidenced by German “Minen” wooden signs—to warn fellow troops. These operations proved vital at El Alamein (October–November 1942), where cleared lanes facilitated the Allied breakthrough.
The Mine Sweeper set evocatively depicts this task: one figure—likely an officer—holds a map and Tommy gun, overseeing two sappers at work. The inclusion of German signage underscores the real practice of using captured or improvised markers. Moreover, the presence of sappers in civilian-style attire mixed with combat gear aligns with period photographs showing Royal Engineers in light khaki uniforms, steel helmets, and mine-probing tools. Overall, clearing minefields was a dangerous but indispensable part of the Eighth Army’s efforts in North Africa, helping turn the tide against Axis forces by enabling safe passage for armor and infantry alike.
Collector Notes
Released in May 2006 and retired in August 2008, EA013 carries King & Country’s typical 1:30 scale and lead‑tin alloy construction, with pre‑applied factory paint (sagerssoldiers.com). The set comprises three cast figures—one Royal Engineer officer and two sappers—plus two wooden German signage props; no vehicle or additional equipment is included (sagerssoldiers.com). On the secondary market, collectors report prices varying widely; a forum listing cites USD 150 for the “Mine Sweepers” set in 2013, though actual sales can range lower or higher depending on condition and packaging (forum.treefrogtreasures.com). Identification tips include verifying the “EA013” inscription and presence of original “Minen” signs, as these are sometimes lost or missing.
Common condition issues involve chipped paint on extremities or signs, while original box and Styrofoam inserts significantly boost desirability. Factory‑painted finishes generally hold well, though touch‑ups are visible upon close inspection. Overall, crisp molds and desert‑appropriate detail make this a sought‑after piece within the Eighth Army series.
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