Collectible Lionel Trains

Model railroading is a hobby in which railways and scenery are modeled at reduced scale. These models include trains, tracks, landscaping, buildings and model people. The hobby began in the 19th century, and gained popularity in the 20th. The most popular brand of model railroad by far has been that of the Lionel company, which began producing trains in 1900, and continues today. The company was begun by Joshuah Lionel Cowen, and inventor who set up an electric train in his store window. Most customers were more interested in the train than the other merchandise, and he began to build them on demand. Lionel trains were popular toys throughout the early and mid-20th century. They were made to the very popular O scale. This scale usually implies a train running on a three rail track, scaled approximately to a ratio of 1:48. 1:43 and 1:45 are also sometimes used, though they generally run on a more realistic-looking two rail track using direct current rather than alternating household current as used by Lionel. This gauge was originally introduced around 1900 by a German toy maker, and called gauge zero, since it was smaller than the existing gauge 1. At the time, it was believed impossible to build a smaller model of train. Many pre-WWII trains were operated by clockwork and made of pressed tin. Lionel has been the most enduring brand to produce O gauge trains, with a name known even outside the hobby.

Lionel trains can be divided into three categories. Pre-war (prior to 1942), Postwar (1945-1969), and Modern (1970-present). Prewar Lionel trains are made of detailed metal, have colorful paint, and hook couplers. Postwar Lionel trains used a more realistic coupler between the railroad cars, replacing the early, toy-like coupler. This is still used by the entire Lionel line, and all of its competitors in the O gauge market. The track for these trains is 11/16” high, with a length of ten inches. These standards have not been significantly changed since their debut in the early 1900s, and are still produced today. Post-war trains contain some plastic. Modern trains focus greatly on realism, and new and innovative designs continue to be produced. In 2004, Lionel released a Polar Express train set based on the popular book and movie, which enjoyed great success. Lionel is the most collectible of the vintage train brands. Their value is increased if they are still in the original packaging. Boxes have been known to sell for over $1,000, depending on the rarity and condition of the piece.

Copyright 2007 Jim Sterling - All Rights Reserved

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