Free Articles at Neutron Marketing Article Publishing and Distribution » Recreation-and-sports » Does A Model Train Collector Have To Actually Run His Trains?
Previous Article - Colada, the famous sword of El Cid
Next Article - Retro Hawaiian Dresses and Having Fun With it

View PDF | Print View | Html Version
by: BillMurphy
Total views: 2
Word Count: 527

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 then the art of recreating a diorama or prototype themselves.

Collectors exist for almost every object and hobby in the world. They're the ones who drive the costs of that first-issue Batman comic through the roof and the ones who simply 'must have' that rare item that no one else really cares about just because of the fact that it is rare.

These people are the ones who help to set the value of the equipment as well as the standards used to grade it. They often spend a great deal of time and energy learning all they can about the history of various model trains and other related equipment. In reality though, many collectors aren't happy to simply display their trains - they want to run them on an operating layout as well.

Lionel Trains as well as many other companies sponsor collector clubs for their older and more obscure models. Many groups around the world exist for the would-be collector or for that enthusiast who is seeking a specific model or details of a particular prototype.

One of the things clubs help to do is set standards such as the following by which items are judged. Normally the product itself is graded separately from the box, and collector's value highest items that are in a 'new' or 'like new' box that have never been removed.

How Products Are Graded

* 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 Containers And Packaging Are Graded

* NEW - Original packaging in the original condition with no damage or fading.

* LIKE NEW - Some wear possible, but no major issues.

* EXCELLENT - Packaging is in original condition but may have some minor signs of wear.

* VERY GOOD - Some damage or tears, may be repaired with tape but package is complete.

* GOOD - Could be missing certain elements, noticable wear and possibly mildew damage.

* FAIR - Missing pieces, tears and discoloration are all likely.

* R - Replica of the original packaging, not the real thing.

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!

About the Author

Author Bill Murphy offers tips about train scenery building and other Model Railway subjects at TheModelRailroader.com. Visit http://www.themodelrailroader.com for a free copy of my report "Model Railroad Design Secrets"

---

Rating: Not yet rated

--Choose-- 0 1 2 3 4 5

No comments posted.

Add Comment

Enter the code shown