r/toysoldiercollector

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An unmade paper model by Pellerin (France, 1914), portraying Serbian soldiers across a rugged landscape. Issued at the outbreak of World War I, it reflects early wartime storytelling—celebrating Serbia’s resistance through detailed, dynamic figures, field scenes, and even a small medical shelter. A striking blend of history, propaganda, and craftsmanship preserved on a single sheet.

https://www.soldatini.eu/2026/04/1914-paper-soldiers-heroic-serbian-army.html

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A great example of wartime adaptation, this Young Patriot Army Combat set shows how the toy industry pivoted during World War II. With metal and rubber reserved for the war effort, companies turned to cardboard—resulting in sets like this, produced by Colorgraphic, Inc. in Chicago. The set includes a full paper “army”: troops in action poses, vehicles, and aircraft—all designed to be cut out, slotted, and played with. Lightweight, inexpensive, and surprisingly durable, these paper soldiers filled the gap left by discontinued pre-war toy lines. What makes it particularly interesting for collectors is the messaging. The box doubles as propaganda, urging children to “Build for Victory” and buy U.S. War Stamps—linking play directly to the home-front effort. This particular example is preserved in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. https://www.soldatini.eu/2026/04/young-patriot-paper-soldiers-for.html