There is a subtle, but important difference between model train enthusiasts and model train collectors. Collectors are generally more concerned about the “collectability” of an item - how rare it is and what shape it’s in - where enthusiasts are all about operating their model railway.
Pretty well every hobby you can think of has collectors in it. They’re the people who drive up prices of old items like the first edition of a famous novel. Most people don’t understand the obsession, but collectors certainly do.
They help set standards and values, expend vast amounts of time detailing and listing historical facts about existing railroad prototypes and in general help to drive a level of professionalism into the hobby that otherwise might be missing. Model train collectors are a good thing, and the fact is that most collectors are also hobbyists - displaying their collections not in jewel cases or behind glass but in a Model Train layout of their own design.
Companies like Lionel Trains even go so far as to sponsor collectors’ clubs for their past equipment. There are plenty of groups you can join if you’re interested in learning more about the hobby.
One of the things these groups do is create standards by which equipment can be rated. The equipment is often rated separately from the packaging it came in, if the box is still intact, and those that are still in the original box, never having been removed, fetch the highest prices.
How Products Are Graded
* NEW - In order to be considered “new” the item must be unused, ideally never even removed from its original package.
* LIKE NEW - This grade indicates that the model train is as good as new, but may have been used and removed from its packaging in the past.
*EXCELLENT - Excellent condition means there is no rust, dirt or damage but that the item has definitely been used.
*VERY GOOD - This level indicates that slight wear but no damage or rust exists.
* GOOD - There may be some slight scratches as well as normal wear but no rust.
* FAIR - Some damage and wear, possibly scratched but still working well.
* POOR - Suitable only for parts and possible not working.
How Packaging Is Graded
* NEW - Original packaging complete with no damage or fading.
* LIKE NEW - Original packaging, may have some slight wear.
* EXCELLENT - Packaging is in original condition but may have some minor signs of wear.
* VERY GOOD - Minor damage possible, maybe even some tape for repairs but still complete.
* GOOD - Could be missing certain elements, noticable wear and possibly mildew damage.
* FAIR - Pieces missing and tears and/or discoloration are possible.
* R - A replica, not the original packaging.
Knowing these grades and having some money to spend will give you a big headstart on collecting model trains. Pick your favorite era or brand and dive right in. Just keep in mind that a collection’s value is in the eyes of the collector - it may not be the best investment!
LIONEL TRAINS CATALOGS SET OF 4; 1954, 1956, 1960, 1961
 | US $9.50 (1 Bid) End Date: Saturday Sep-06-2008 12:15:03 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list |
Lionel 4 Car Amtrak Illuminated Passenger Train set
 | US $70.00 (1 Bid) End Date: Saturday Sep-06-2008 12:17:40 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list |
HALLMARK LIONEL TRAIN ORNAMENT SET NEW UNOPENED BOXES
 | US $22.50 (7 Bids) End Date: Saturday Sep-06-2008 14:22:46 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list |
Complete 1963 Lionel Train Set, model 1062, Works!
 | US $39.99 (2 Bids) End Date: Saturday Sep-06-2008 14:54:12 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list |
LIONEL 11004 NASCAR TRAIN SET/FREE JEFF GORDON PC. NEW
 | US $75.00 (1 Bid) End Date: Saturday Sep-06-2008 15:16:10 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list |
LIONEL O Scale New Jersey TRANSIT Train Set WORKING!!
 | US $31.00 (5 Bids) End Date: Saturday Sep-06-2008 17:19:58 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list |
Vintage Train Set and Track *Made by LIONEL In The USA
 | US $69.99 (7 Bids) End Date: Saturday Sep-06-2008 18:00:18 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list |
1959 LIONEL TRAINS 1862 GENERAL SET EXCELLENT NoRESERVE
 | US $152.50 (15 Bids) End Date: Saturday Sep-06-2008 18:08:00 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list |
LIONEL TRAINS 11809 MOTORIZED VILLAGE TROLLEY SET MINT
 | US $42.00 (7 Bids) End Date: Saturday Sep-06-2008 18:12:00 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list |
LIONEL TRAINS SANTA FE GENERAL SET EXCELLENT NO RESERVE
 | US $83.52 (10 Bids) End Date: Saturday Sep-06-2008 18:24:00 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list |
About the Author:
Author Bill Murphy writes about train scenery building and other Model Railroading subjects at TheModelRailroader.com. Surf over to http://www.themodelrailroader.com for a free copy of my report “Model Railroad Design Secrets” Click here to get your own unique version of this article.
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