The enthralling journey of Metalgraf began in Portugal in the early 20th century. This brand, well-respected among the vintage toy aficionados, was founded by Jos Maria da Fonseca, a visionary whose passion for toys and children led to the brands inception. Known for its tinplate toys, often based on real vehicles, Metalgraf quickly found a dedicated market among toy collectors. The company started its operation in Lisbon and later relocated to its own factory in Porto. During World War II, when imported toys were scarce, Metalgraf provided joy to many children with their locally made toys. Unfortunately, as the popularity of plastic toys surged, Metalgraf saw a decline in their market, leading to the closure of the brand during the late '70s.