Original Czech Cold War Era Cardboard and Wood T-54/T-55 Soviet Main Battle Tank Model – Formerly A.A.F. Tank Museum Collection Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is an exceptional example of a meticulously crafted cardboard and wooden model of the famous Soviet (Czech) T-54/T-55 Main Battle tank. The attention to detail is impressive, as the tank is constructed using a combination of various types of scrap wood with cardboard, which adds a unique touch to the model. The overall design of the tank is mostly accurate and true to the original, with the machine guns still able to traverse and the whole “turret” portion able to rotate as well. The craftsmanship is remarkable, and it is evident that the creator took great care in every detail of the model, making it a true work of art. The body of the tank measures 10 1/2″, and it is 14 1/2″ in overall length when counting the 6″ long barrel.

The T-54 and T-55 tanks are a series of Soviet main battle tanks introduced in the years following the Second World War. The first T-54 prototype was completed at Nizhny Tagil by the end of 1945. From the late 1950s, the T-54 eventually became the main tank for armoured units of the Soviet Army, armies of the Warsaw Pact countries, and many others. T-54s and T-55s have been involved in many of the world’s armed conflicts since their introduction in the second half of the 20th century.

The T-54/55 series is the most-produced tank in history. Estimated production numbers for the series range from 96,500 to 100,000. They were replaced by the T-62, T-64, T-72, T-80 and T-90 tanks in the Soviet and Russian armies, but remain in use by up to 50 other armies worldwide, some having received sophisticated retrofitting.

Czechoslovakia ordered 1,800 T-54s in 1957 and produced under license between 1958 and 1963. 1,700 T-55s were ordered in 1963 and produced under license between 1964 and 1973. Overall 2,700 T-54s were produced under license between 1957 and 1966 and 8,300 T-55s and T-55As between 1964 and 1983 (T-55A was probably produced since 1968) (most for export). Passed on to successor states.

The tank came to us from the American Armoured Foundation, Inc. Tank and Ordnance Memorial Museum. The AAF Tank Museum was a living memorial dedicated to the Tank and Cavalry soldiers of the world. Before 1981 some of the artifacts that make up the AAF Tank Museum was a private collection belonging to Mr. William Gasser. Mr. Gasser felt that his collection would be beneficial in educating present and future generations to the sacrifices made and the technologies gained during war. Therefore, in 1981 the AAF Tank Museum was established as a non-profit charitable organization, and Mr. Gasser’s donated his private collection to the Tank Museum. Mr. Gasser is still active as Volunteer Director and Curator of the Tank Museum and his knowledge of military history has been a great asset to the museum. Unfortunately after 20 years of operation it had to close its doors, which is when this tank was acquired.

A lovely tank model that comes more than ready for further research and display.