2024_Catalog-A5_COVER

In keeping with the traditions of CollectA the new for 2024 models reflect the huge variety of prehistoric animals represented by the fossil record. A total of seven new prehistoric figures are being introduced this year. Working in collaboration with talented German sculptor Matthias Geiger, CollectA has brought to life a medley of creatures that reflect the astonishing diversity of animals that once roamed the land or flew in the skies of an ancient Earth. The fearsome Middle Jurassic pterosaur Dearc sgiathanach is a welcome new addition to the CollectA Age of Dinosaurs Deluxe range. It is one of the largest flying reptiles known from the Jurassic. This figure in 1:3 scale and has a paint scheme inspired by the colours and symbols found on the flag of the Isle of Skye, the Scottish island upon which the single fossil specimen that represents this genus was discovered. There is a new 1:100 scale sauropod. The giant Dreadnoughtus from the Late Cretaceous of Argentina. Named and described in 2014, it was one of the largest land animals to have ever existed. Around 45% of the skeleton of the type specimen was recovered, one of the most complete skeletons of a super-sized dinosaur discovered to date. These fossils have provided palaeontologists with new information on the anatomy of giant dinosaurs. Joining the Dreadnoughtus in the Age of Dinosaurs Deluxe range is a 1:20 scale replica of the armoured dinosaur Polacanthus. First scientifically described in 1865, Polacanthus continues to be studied to this day. The layout and configuration of every piece of armour and every spine and spike on the figure is based on a detailed analysis of the actual fossil material. A male Diprotodon model in 1:20 scale is also introduced this year. Diprotodon is the largest marsupial that ever lived. It was the first fossil mammal from Australia to be scientifically described. This huge herbivore weighed around three tonnes and it was part of an amazing Australian megafauna that thrived on the continent during the Pleistocene Epoch. In CollectA's Popular series we offer a dinosaur from the other end of the planet. A replica of the polar tyrannosaur Nanuqsaurus is being introduced. This dinosaur roamed northern Alaska in the Late Cretaceous. When first described (2014), Nanuqsaurus was estimated to have measured Matthias Geiger Matthias is a German sculptor with a great passion for Dinosaurs. In collaboration with Anthony Beeson and other consultants, he brings life to CollectA’s vision of prehistoric animals. around 6 metres long. However, more recent fossil finds suggest that Nanuqsaurus was much larger and that it was the apex predator in the high latitudes of North America. This year marks the centenary of the scientific description of Velociraptor. To commemorate the hundred years since this dinosaur was first named, CollectA have introduced a 1:6 scale figure that reflects the very latest research. The CollectA Deluxe Velociraptor depicts this iconic dinosaur as an extremely agile and active animal. The plumage has been updated and the Velociraptor figure sports a propatagium, a flap of soft tissue linking the wrists to the shoulders, a feature it shares with living birds that can fly. Last but not least in this “magnificent seven” is a 1:20 scale replica of the Late Triassic dicynodont Placerias. It is included in CollectA's Other Prehistoric Animal range, and it is the second dicynodont figure to be added to the CollectA range after Lisowicia which was introduced in 2020. The Placerias model has been given a subtle coat of sparse bristles running along the top of its back down to the chubby tail. Research has suggested that these animals, which were distantly related to modern mammals may have had hair, and the new for 2024 Placerias model reflects this recent interpretation of dicynodont fossil material. Wishing you all a happy and peaceful year.