KING AND COUNTRY DD288
Overview
Introduction to the set
History of 82nd Airborne on D‑Day
Collector notes
The King & Country set DD288‑1 “US Paratroopers Moving Forward … Cautiously!” (82nd Airborne) presents a finely sculpted two‑trooper vignette capturing that tense moment just beyond the DZ. Released in June 2016 and retired by June 2020, the pair conveys motion and alert suspense, with one figure gripping a rifle and grenade. This compact set appeals to collectors pursuing high‑detail Normandy airborne miniatures. Moreover, its retirement status makes it a sought‑after acquisition, with secondary‑market values often reflecting this desirability.
Historical Background
On D‑Day, June 6, 1944, the US 82nd Airborne Division parachuted into Normandy to secure key inland objectives—such as Sainte‑Mère‑Église and causeway exits—to support the amphibious landings on Utah Beach. Comprised of the 505th, 507th, and 508th Parachute Infantry Regiments under Major General Matthew Ridgway, they faced scattered drops, heavy German resistance, and rough terrain. Employing uniform camouflaged jump smocks or M‑1942 khaki gear with mud and scrim, troopers carried M1 rifles or carbines, grenades, and toggled with SH‑output radios. Their mission’s success helped open routes for advancing forces and disrupted German counterattacks. Notably, the division’s flexibility and rapid consolidation under fire in the early morning hours proved critical to Allied breakout operations in Normandy.
In particular, securing causeway ridges enabled the armored units to move inland. Overall, the 82nd’s airborne assault signaled the audacious opening of the Western Front and showcased airborne tactics’ strategic impact.
Collector Notes
The DD288‑1 set features two finely detailed metal miniatures, roughly 1:30 scale, typical of King & Country’s D‑Day ’44 Americans line. One figure is posed cautiously advancing with rifle and grenade, the other similarly alert—both wearing 82nd Airborne patch insignia. Released June 2016 and retired June 2020, the set originally retailed around $99 USD (sagerssoldiers.com). Packaging was standard blister card with backdrop. On the secondary market, mint‑boxed examples generally trade between $120–$160 depending on condition and seller reputation. Collectors should inspect for paint wear—especially on grenades and hands—and check the patch decals for clarity. Retired and intact sets command a premium, while taped or loose figures may run $80–$100.
Variants are rare, though repainting or loose pairing with the DD288‑2 (101st) set may occur—and should be noted. Overall, condition, packaging, and completeness influence value significantly.
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