Does A Model Train Collector Have To Actually Run His Trains?
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.
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 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.
Grades For Model Train Equipment
* NEW – In original condition, most likely never used or even removed from the package.
* LIKE NEW – Good as new with no damage but likely removed from the packaging at some point.
* EXCELLENT – No rust, dirt or other types of damage but almost certainly used at some point.
* VERY GOOD – Some wear but no serious damage or rust.
* GOOD – Scratches and other signs of normal wear, but no major damage.
* FAIR – Slightly damaged, worn and possibly scratched but still quite usable.
* POOR – Damaged, possibly not working. Generally only to be used for parts to repair better quality model trains.
Model Train Packaging Grading
* NEW – Original packaging in the original condition with no damage or fading.
* LIKE NEW – Some wear possible, but no major issues.
* 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 – Missing elements, heavy wear and possibly some mildew but complete.
* FAIR – Pieces missing and tears and/or discoloration are possible.
* R – Replica of the original packaging, not the real thing.
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!
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