DD005 THREE PARATROOPERS MANNING A 57MM ANTI-TANK GUN BY KING & COUNTRY
Overview
Introductory overview
History of 57 mm anti‑tank guns in US airborne use
Collector notes
The King & Country DD005 “Three Paratroopers Manning a 57 mm Anti‑Tank Gun” is a richly detailed 1:30 scale diorama set released in 1998. Designed by Andy Neilson for the D‑Day ’44 – Americans series, it comprises three airborne paratrooper figures and a 57 mm anti‑tank gun in a lead/tin alloy, delivered in factory‑painted finish with an oval profiled base. The set captures a tense moment of American paratroopers preparing to defend against enemy armor with historically accurate weaponry. Collectors appreciate its articulation, distinctive poses, and faithful marking of World War II airborne units.
Historical Background
The real‑world subject of DD005 centers on US airborne usage of the 57 mm anti‑tank gun (Ordnance QF 6‑pounder Mark III or US‑classified 57 mm M1 with glider‑suitable Mk III carriage). These guns entered service in US airborne units in the Normandy campaign of June 1944, notably used by the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions after being accepted into the Table of Organization and Equipment from December 1944 onward (en.wikipedia.org). Mounted on the lighter Mk III carriage, the British‑manufactured guns were chosen due to their ability to be transported in gliders (en.wikipedia.org).
In Normandy, paratroopers deployed these guns near Sainte‑Mère‑Église and Carentan where, despite limited enemy armor, they served predominantly in a support role using armour‑piercing ammunition, until high‑explosive rounds became available post‑invasion (en.wikipedia.org). According to 15 July 1943 TO&E, standard infantry division tables allocated 57 mm guns across headquarters and regiment‑level anti‑tank companies, but airborne units remained with 37 mm guns until the Normandy airdrops prompted equipping with the 57 mm Mk III variant (en.wikipedia.org). The guns’ introduction improved airborne anti‑armor capabilities, yet their weight and limited tow options posed logistical challenges in hedgerow terrain. Post‑Normandy, as mobile self‑propelled weapons gained prominence, towed guns declined in favor (en.wikipedia.org).
Overall, the 57 mm anti‑tank gun symbolizes mid‑war evolution in US airborne firepower—transitioning from light anti‑tank rifles to a more capable artillery piece for defensive and support roles during Operation Overlord and beyond. The DD005 set faithfully echoes this historic combination of paratrooper gun crews and their towed artillery in a snapshot of WWII operations.
Collector Notes
Identification of DD005 is straightforward: King & Country D‑Day ’44 Americans collection, set code DD005, released 1998, designer Andy Neilson, lead/tin alloy, 1:30 scale, factory‑painted, oval base reading “King&Country D.DAY’44 1998” (lastdodo.com). The set includes three figures and one gun, with paratroopers armed with M1 carbines and a Thompson, matching period airborne gear (lastdodo.com). Variants are uncommon—K&C typically did not issue alternate paint schemes for this set. Collectors should check for crisp detail on insignia (82nd/101st division—though generic patching is typical) and proper weapon sculpting. Factory paint flaws include occasional overspray on the gun barrel or uneven camouflage; touch‑ups should use enamel for cohesion. Packaging originally came in numbered blister‑style card; boxes in good condition command premiums.
Secondary‑market pricing for NM‑NN examples hovers around €100–€120 (~US $110–$130) per catalogue listings (lastdodo.com). Complete sets with box can reach $150; missing gun or paint wear reduces value significantly. In conclusion, DD005 is a prized mid‑WWII set for airborne and artillery collectors seeking historical accuracy with attractive diorama potential.
As an eBay Partner Network Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
