The originally issued Franklin Mint 1997 Coupe was Torch Red with black interior. Of course a limited number were done as a market test in Black/Black. The 1997 Coupe in this, "All American Corvette Collection" is Nassau Blue Metallic with Light Gray interior. The original issue 1998 Convertible model was done in Sebring Silver Metallic with Black interior. Our first Limited Edition Club Car was derived from this model and finished in Aztec Gold with Light Oak interior. TFM decided on Torch Red for the 1998 car in this set and amended the interior to Light Gray sporting a black convertible top. Finally, the original 1999 Hardtop was done in Nassau Blue Metallic but brought to this collection as a beautiful Arctic White with Black interior.

All three cars feature opening headlamps, fully functioning suspension, detailed engine bays and interiors. Each is affixed with a Limited Edition plate in the interior rear claiming their status as xxxx/7500. The year model is so stated too. As with the newer versions of the C5 diecasts, all feature the rear axle half-shafts and a CD disk may be seen emerging from the dashboard. You may elect to perch the collection on the display base that comes with the trio. Three mirrored bases set in black-finished wood, it resembles the profile of the C5 hood. Backed by the Corvette insignia of crossed flags, it makes a remarkable presentation. Together on this podium, in patriotic red, white and blue they form the, "All American Corvette Collection". It makes a most striking and very handsome display.

*Editor's note: Cars in the initial sets came with body side moldings (BSM) on the red '98 model and white '99 model but not on the blue '97. Some later versions saw the white '99 and red '98 devoid of the BSM's. During production of this All American Corvette Collection the '99 tooling was used, without the BSM's, for the '99 police car version, the '03 yellow Z06 and the '04 Commemorative Z06. There may also be some others with the dissappearing moldings as well. The issue price is $345. (12/16/2000)

-Tony Perrone