The French Dinky Citroen Currus Police Camionette. The 1965 French Dinky catalogue introduced the Citroën Currus ‘Police’ Camionette, 566, as to be launched during that year. In fact, the launch of the 1/50 scale model took place during July 1965, when the 117mm long van cost 14.5 new francs, about £1, 9/-. The price soon rose to 16.5 new francs, £1, 12/-. Fine detail characterises the model, which clearly demonstrates the vehicle’s extended bodywork produced by Currus for the Paris police. The model has a midnight blue, almost black, and white livery, with a dome flashing light and an orange illuminated ‘Police’ sign in a panel above the cab. The word ‘Police’ is on either side of the model above the rear wheels. The model has a two-tone horn, symmetrical sliding side doors and frosted glass throughout the rear compartment. The wheel hubs are concave, blue-black in colour and fitted with treaded tyres.

Currus, the vehicle body-maker, produced about 4-5 vehicles per day at its Massy-Palaiseau plant. In 1971, the company opened a second plant in Macon. However, with the 1973 oil crisis, business declined and chassis suppliers almost disappeared from the market. Heuliez took-over the company and later, Currus became part of Camiva, which became a subsidiary of Berliet. Currus became too dependent on work from Citroën, building vehicles based on their 350 chassis. Ironically, Currus was eventually sold to Peugeot who, along with Citroën, are now part of PSA. The original price was 14.5 Fr. . It was available in black & white finish at 1:50 scale. Released as French Dinky 566 in 1965 withdrawn as French Dinky 566 in 1970.