Pin Mat '54

2-D hard enamel pin on a base of silvery metal. On the backside are 2 caps that clasp down tightly due to the spring fitted into the core. The Mat' 54 is 40mm long and 14,5mm high.
This Dogface train is modelled after the image of the 766, of which the number can be found on the nose (you do need a good set of eyes on you to spot it).

The Mat '54 (Material '54) is our first "classic" edition. This train, which is named after the year in which it was ordered, quickly gained the (unofficial) nickname "the Dogshead", due to the round, slightly extended nose.

The Dogshead served it's last ride on the Dutch Railways back in 1996 after 40 years of service. Originally commissioned way back in 1954, it wasn't until 1956 when the first models in service began traveling the tracks with their cream coloured moustache on the head of a green body. In 1968 the Nederlandse Spoorwegen (the Dutch Railways) commissioned the recolour to the renowned corporate colours of yellow and blue.

If you want to find out more about Stichting Hondekop (the Dogshead Foundation), take a look at their website here:
(dutch only)

Or take a look at their facebookpage:
(dutch only)




Photo Credit left: http://www.nicospilt.com/index_HondekopVier.htm Nico Spilt
Photo Credit right: https://twitter.com/nsreiziger/status/749174201211351040 @NS reiziger