King & Country DD002 US Rangers Review

DD002 THREE US RANGERS PLUS A 29TH INFANTRY CORPORAL BY KING & COUNTRY

Overview

Introduction
History Section
Collector Notes

King & Country’s DD002 “Three US Rangers plus a 29th Infantry Corporal” delivers a finely detailed 4‑figure set in 1:30 scale, part of the D‑Day ’44 Americans collection. Released in 1998 and sculpted by Andy Neilson, the set captures the diverse weaponry and dynamic poses of three elite Rangers and a Corporal from the 29th Infantry, rendered in factory‑painted lead/tin alloy. Collectors appreciate its historical accuracy and retired status, reinforced by original packaging. It makes a visually striking addition to WWII dioramas, particularly for Normandy scenarios.

Historical Background

This set portrays three US Army Rangers and a Corporal from the 29th Infantry around the Normandy landings of 6 June 1944. The Rangers, elite light infantry trained for amphibious and airborne operations, stormed heavily defended beaches to secure exits and inland objectives. Meanwhile, the 29th Infantry Division was one of the main assault formations landing at Omaha Beach, sustaining intense casualties but eventually breaching German coastal defenses. Their Springfield M1 rifles, M1/M1A1 Garands, BAR (Browning Automatic Rifle), and Thompson submachine guns, all represented in the DD002 figures, were key in close-quarters combat and beach penetration. The combination highlights the Rangers’ specialized assault role juxtaposed with the regular infantry’s sustained firepower and holding position tasks.

The Rangers cleared strongpoints, while the 29th’s Corporal exemplifies leadership amidst chaotic firefights and the grinding push inland. Consequently, the set symbolizes the coordinated yet distinct roles of elite and standard infantry in the success of Operation Overlord.

Collector Notes

Identification of DD002 relies on the serial number and the King & Country D.Day ’44 Americans pedestal marked “King&Country D.DAY ‘44 1999” (lastdodo.com). Despite being released in 1998, the pedestal text indicates the collection theme year. The figures are cast in lead/tin alloy, factory‑painted, and presented on oval profiled bases with poses holding BAR, M1 Garand, Springfield rifle and Thompson (lastdodo.com). The set is retired, and recent auction estimates range widely—from ~€80 to €220 depending on condition and completeness (barnebys.es). The History Store listed it as “Sold Out” with a retail of USD‑$259 (thehistorystoreohio.com). For condition, the presence of original box raises value significantly. Watch for chipped paint at extremities (rifle barrels, hands), and inspect for bent weapons.

Packaging variants include cardboard box with foam inserts matching other DD series. Cleaned or repainted examples command lower prices. As a recommendation, collectors should seek MIB sets in excellent condition for optimal display.