LEGO 1961 / Classic Sets

In 1961 LEGO released 19 Classic sets across 4 subthemes. The largest Classic set from 1961 was 810-2 Town Plan with a piece count of 760.

The LEGO Classic theme comprises sets that offer a broad assortment of bricks and pieces in various colors and shapes. Unlike many other LEGO themes that revolve around specific narratives or characters, the Classic theme emphasizes open-ended creativity, allowing builders to construct whatever they envision. These sets serve as foundational building kits and include various LEGO elements and parts in a variety of packaging.

1961 LEGO Sets

1961 marked a significant year for the LEGO Group. International sales, production and distribution were greatly expanded. North America was an important market but its sheer size and distance from Denmark required a sales and distribution network that was too large for LEGO to manage at the time. LEGO reached an agreement to allow Samsonite to begin producing and selling LEGO products in North America. The result was a license for exclusive North American distribution rights and LEGO began marketing sets under the name ‘LEGO by Samsonite’ in the US in 1961. In the same year, LEGO Italy was established.