Model Train Collectors Don't Always Operate Their Trains
Bill Murphy
Believe it or not there is a difference between Model Train enthusiasts and Model Train collectors. A subtle one for sure, but a difference nonetheless! Collectors are more interested in owning and displaying hard to come by prototypes or items of value rather than the art of recreating a diorama or prototype themselves.
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.
Collectors are the people who ultimately set values and the standards used to grade the equipment. They spend great amounts of time learning historical facts about the various model trains and other model railroading equipment. They're a good thing for the hobby, and in reality the majority of them aren't satisfied just displaying their equipment - they actually run them on operational model railroad layouts.
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.
Grades For Model Train Equipment
* NEW - In original condition, most likely never used or even removed from the 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 - Slightly damaged, worn and possibly scratched but still quite usable.
* POOR - Suitable only for parts and possible not working.
How Packaging Is Graded
* NEW - Original packaging complete with no damage or fading.
* LIKE NEW - May have a bit of wear but no major blemishes.
* EXCELLENT - Like-original packaging with only moderate wear, no repairs.
* VERY GOOD - May have some tears or damage possible non-original tape but complete.
* GOOD - Some elements may be missing, some wear and possibly even minor mildew damage.
* FAIR - Missing pieces, tears and discoloration are all likely.
* R - A non-original or replica.
Armed with this information and a healthy bank account you too can begin collecting. Just pick a favorite theme or brand and dive in - just remember that in the world of collecting the buyer sets the value and there may be a difference between a collection and an investment!
Author Bill Murphy offers tips about (
http://www.themodelrailroader.com/landscaping/practical-model-railway-building-materials) train scenery building and other Model Railroading subjects at TheModelRailroader.com. Visit
http://www.themodelrailroader.com for a free copy of my report "Model Railroad Design Secrets"
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