1970 Hess Fire Truck: The First Emergency Vehicle
The 1970 Hess Fire Truck was a bold and exciting departure from the company’s tradition of oil tankers and ships. It was the first emergency vehicle in the lineup and the first to incorporate a true motorized feature, setting a new bar for toy quality and fun.
A Tribute to the Refinery Fleet
Modeled after an actual fire engine used at the Hess refinery in Port Reading, New Jersey, the Pumper Fire Truck introduced a new color—bright red—and showcased features that were highly innovative for a toy of its class in that era.
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Key Features and Specifications
- Model: Pumper Fire Truck.
- Color Scheme: Bright red body with extensive chrome detailing (ladders, railings, etc.).
- Motorized Light: This was the first Hess toy to feature a motorized part—a small electric motor designed to rotate the single red emergency beacon light on top of the cab.
- Accessories: The truck included a detachable two-piece ladder that mounted to the side and two long rubber hoses.
- Size: The truck measured approximately 10.5 inches long.
Collectible Status and the 1971 Rarity
The 1970 Fire Truck itself is a valuable piece, but it is often compared to its re-issue in 1971, which produced one of the most famous and rarest variations in the collection:
| Metric | Detail |
|---|---|
| Original Retail Price | $1.69 (batteries included). |
| Collectible Value (MIB) | Mint condition in the original, full-color box is valued around $525. |
| 1971 Rarity (“Season’s Greetings”) | The 1971 version of this truck is far more valuable if it retains the original packaging: due to a shortage of the printed boxes, late 1971 releases were packaged in plain white boxes with a “Season’s Greetings” sticker applied by station attendants. Estimated Value: $2,500 – $3,500+ |
Disclaimer
Hess®, Hess Toy Truck®, and related trademarks are the sole property of Hess Corporation. We do not claim any ownership rights or affiliation with the Hess Corporation. All historical pricing and collectible valuations are estimates for informational and reference purposes only and do not constitute a guarantee of current market value.
| Decade | 1970s |
|---|---|
| Model Type | Rescue |
