20-ton capacity coal wagons were introduced in the 1930's, the railway companies offering a better rate per ton for coal haulage in these larger wagons. To assist with unloading these high-capacity wagons two doors were fitted in each side, plus end and often four bottom hatch doors.

This model carries the brick red livery of a wagon operated by Stevens of Oxford. Although No.1001 suggests a large fleet this may actually be the first 20-ton wagon operated by the company, many operators numbering these wagons in a new, separate series. This helped identify the large wagons and prevent them being sent to pits where high-sided wagons would not fit under the loading screens!