A unique, completely original set of four (4) handmade wooden toy tanks. Likely crafted during or shortly after the World War II era, these pieces are a wonderful example of wartime resourcefulness and British military folk art. 
 
It is very possible, but unconfirmed, that these could have been made by a prisoner of war.
 
Each tank has been meticulously shaped from solid wood blocks and fitted with small metal pins or wires to serve as the main gun barrels. They feature a striking, hand-painted multi-colour camouflage pattern in traditional green, yellow/ochre, and black tones.
 
Intriguing Historical Markings:
What makes this specific set incredible is the individualised hand-painted detailing on the turrets and hulls, suggesting they were part of a large, highly organised wargaming set:
"NORMA" (Turret #14): Features the hand-painted name on the side hull.
"BERYL" (Turret #17): Features a classic British "B" Squadron style name on the track guard.
"JO" (Turret #13): Numbered on the turret, keeping a clean line-tank look.
"SUZIE Q" (Turret #26): Numbered on the turret, suggestive that this collection once belonged to a massive miniature army of at least 26 vehicles.
A fantastic addition to any collection of vintage toys, folk art, home trench art, or WWII militaria.
 
Possible WWll military links to these name and numbers (unconfirmed);
 
B-17E “Suzy Q” — serial 41-2489
“26” is particularly interesting here: the aircraft itself was 41-2489, but its crew was credited with 26 enemy aircraft shot down. That could potentially explain a reference to “Suzy Q — 26.”
 
“Beryl” is the name of a particular M5 Stuart tank that was converted into a gun tractor for the British 17-pounder anti-tank gun.
 
P-47 Thunderbolt — “Norma”. Aircraft: Republic P-47D Thunderbol. Pilot: Lt. Bradley A. Muhl. Unit: 65th Fighter Squadron, 57th Fighter Group.
 
We would love to hear from anyone with any information that might link these names and numbers.