At Everything Dinosaur, we get sent lots of questions by dinosaur fans.  We try our best to reply to them all.  Sometimes the questions we receive relate to a new dinosaur discovery.  We get enquiries about the latest research and fossil finds.  In addition, our email inbox is populated with enquiries about prehistoric animal figures.  Some of these questions involve us providing information about a single model.  For example, recently we received lots of enquiries about the new Eofauna T. rex 1/35th scale model. However, we also receive more general questions, such as which are the best prehistoric animal models?   This is a tricky question to answer.  After all, an appreciation of dinosaur and prehistoric animal models is extremely subjective.

Comparing T. rex dinosaur models. The Natural History Museum figure compared to a CollectA 1:40 scale Tyrannosaurus.  Which prehistoric animal is best?  That’s a subjective question.  Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The image (above) features two prehistoric animal dinosaur models.  The Natural History Museum Tyrannosaurus rex is on the left, whilst a CollectA Deluxe T. rex is shown (right).

To view the CollectA Deluxe model range: CollectA Deluxe Models.

The Everything Dinosaur article about the new Eofauna T. rex figure: The New Eofauna Scientific Research Theropod Figure.

The Best Prehistoric Animal Models?

Prehistoric animals and extinct creatures have long captivated the imagination of children and adults alike. The most popular museums tend to be ones that focus on natural history. The most popular galleries in these museums are often the ones containing prehistoric animal fossils. From the fearsome Tyrannosaurus rex, to the majestic mammoth (Mammuthus), these animals drive curiosity and a thirst for knowledge. Moreover, for those seeking to bring the past to life, high-quality animal replicas can be an invaluable resource.  Whether used for educational purposes, creative storytelling, or simply as display pieces in museums, prehistoric animal models offer a tangible connection to ancient ecosystems.

A Papo green running Tyrannosaurus rex model on display next to a replica of a T. rex tooth and a T. rex claw. An exhibit at the Manchester Museum of Natural History.  Papo models and figures may not be the most accurate replicas on the market.  However, they are used to illustrate dinosaur fossil displays. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The picture (above) shows the popular Papo running T. rex figure in a museum exhibit featuring tyrannosaur material.  Papo prehistoric animals may not be the most scientifically accurate models, but these figures have been spotted being used in museums.

To view the range of Papo dinosaurs and other figures available: Papo Dinosaurs and Prehistoric Animals.

Scientific Accuracy or Play Value?

Arguably, the best prehistoric animal models not only capture the unique physical characteristics of their subjects, but also their sense of power and presence. Many also feature articulated joints, allowing for dynamic posing and creative play.  So, when considering which are the best prehistoric animal models what factors should we prioritise?  Do we focus on scientific accuracy or play value?  For example, the Beasts of the Mesozoic figures are essentially for display.  However, their stunning paintwork along with their myriad of articulated joints can attract younger dinosaur fans to this model range.

A close-up view of the stunning Beasts of the Mesozoic Utahraptor figure. This dinosaur model has an articulated lower jaw and numerous points of articulation.  Is this a collectable or does it lend itself to imaginative play?  Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Additionally, there are personal preferences to consider.  For Everything Dinosaur team members, it is not possible for us to answer the question about “the best prehistoric animal models”.  Any answers would be difficult to quantify and extremely subjective.  Ultimately, it is a case of “beauty being in the eye of the beholder” and there are probably no right or wrong answers to this question.

Happy model collecting.

To visit the user friendly and award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Toys and Models.