The Letter Getter was designed by Larry Wood. It is based on a customized United States Postal Service (USPS) mail delivery truck, likely a Jeep DJ-5.
It was first released in 1977. Model 9643 with Blackwall (BW) wheels corresponds to a later 1970s release, as the very first versions came with Redline wheels.
The casting is a right-hand drive vehicle, just like a real mail truck. It has a sliding side door on the passenger side. Early releases were blue with "U.S. MAIL" tampos.
It is a very unique casting, representing a specific and recognizable service vehicle. It is thematically similar to other work vehicles like the "Divco Delivery Truck."
The earliest 1977 versions with Redline wheels are the rarest. Most were produced with Blackwall wheels. It was also released in white.