In the mid 1990's, Don DeSalle manufactured a series of Tonka trucks for the very serious Tonka collector. These Tonkas were not meant to be played with in the sandbox or crashed and smashed in typical child's play fashion. These Tonkas were based on the Tonka trucks of the early and mid 1950's. Steel stamping dies were created to replicate the various steel components for the trucks. A high quality paint finish was applied, something you did not find on mass produced Tonka trucks of the 1950's or today for that matter. The trucks were even packaged in unique shipping cartons. No expense was spared in an effort to offer a superior, high quality collectible Tonka to those enthusiasts with pockets deep enough to afford these offerings.

The Desalle trucks were manufactured in limited quantities, from 100 to 1500 trucks in a given series. Don signed each of his trucks in an inconspicuous location and also offered a Certificate of Authenticity signed by many of the key players on his staff.

So, who is Don Desalle? To quote from his book, Collector's Guide to Tonka Trucks 1947-1963, "are nationally known authorities and collectors of Tonka trucks." He and his wife, Barb, own one of the most outstanding Tonka truck collections in the country, if not the world. The Desalles are also licensed to reproduce replacement parts for antique Tonka trucks.

I truly admire these sought after collectible Tonka trucks. The hardcore Tonka collector may know that these models exist, but the novice collector and enthusiast may not. I do not know how many different models Don offered. I continue to search through various references in an effort to identify as many models as possible. As I continue to discover different models, I will add them to this website for your enjoyment.The photos seen on this website were culled from many searches and were taken by many different truck owners. Therefore, the images vary in quality and size.

If you are the owner of a Desalle truck that is not featured below and you would like to share your pride and joy with the world, email me high resolution photos of your truck taken from a couple of different angles. Also let me know the year and quantity issued. I'll give the proud owner all due recognition.

Following is a listing of the known Desalle collectibles. Clicking a link will direct you to photos of the truck.

G. Fox Box Van

Champion Ford Box Van

Morrell Meats Box Van

Steiff Bear Pickup

Bruce Floor Care Box Van

Tonka Hi-Way Big Mike

Tonka Hi-Way Low Boy

Ace Hardware Box Van with Pup

50th Anniversary Pickup

Ace Hardware Box Van

Tonka Hi-Way Land Rover

Tonka Hi-Way Pickup

Red Pickup