Corgi AA31801 1:144 Boeing B-29 Superfortress USAAF 58th BW Esso Express

A monumental long-range heavyweight engineered to strike deep within hostile territories. This highly detailed 1:144 scale diecast model by Corgi (AA31801) replicates the legendary Boeing B-29 Superfortress (#42-6242), affectionately christened "Esso Express." Operating during the final, high-stakes months of World War II, this aircraft served under the USAAF 58th Bombardment Wing, 468th Bombardment Group. The B-29 represented the pinnacle of wartime aviation technology, introducing cutting-edge advancements such as a fully pressurized crew cabin, an advanced analog missile control system, and a network of remote-controlled defensive machine-gun turrets. Designed as a high-altitude daytime strategic bomber, it famously adapted to carry out relentless low-altitude nighttime incendiary missions that ultimately altered the course of the war in the Pacific. This model serves as a definitive tribute to the heavy piston-engine era, finished in an authentic olive drab livery with its distinct tail markings.

Ideal for curators of Pacific theater operations and foundational strategic bomber collections, this Aviation Archive Collector Series release stands as a definitive historical artifact. Despite its compact 1:144 scale, the model is built with a heavy diecast metal construction, weighing in at well over a pound with minimal plastic components. Structural engineering highlights include a solid-metal wing and tail assembly integrated flawlessly with four Pratt & Whitney radial engine nacelles. Fine detailing includes thinly stamped, free-spinning all-metal propellers, internal radial engine details visible behind the cowlings, and transparent glazing on both the nose and the rear gunner's canopy positions. Complete with rigid, all-metal machine gun barrels and an elegant presentation stand to capture the heavy bomber in a commanding flight profile, this premium collectible delivers an uncompromised presence.

Fact Sheet

Model Dimensions

Model Condition - Good (6/10)

• Paint bubbling present on both sides of the vertical stabiliser.
• Small area of paint loss to the top of the fin.
• Tray rub to the leading edge of the wing, with some paint loss.
• Paint cracking/crazing visible on the grey underside paint.

Box condition - Fair (5/10)

• Noticeable wear is present including a rip, flexing to the box and missing surface art. All shown within the images.

Photographed under studio lighting to highlight even the smallest imperfections. Buy with confidence, what you see is exactly what you get.

Any imperfections are shown in the images and description. Refer to the grading tab for more details. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask.