Any Vintage Train collectors out there.?

**JRSully** · #1 01-27-2022, 10:56 PM

Looking for some direction here if possible. I was contacted by a recent Widow who's husband collected vintage toy trains for many, many years, primarily, brand new in the box stuff. This a very large collection, quite a lot here.
I don't know anything about vintage trains, maybe a member here can offer some guidance.? Much appreciated.

**x44d80** · #2 01-27-2022, 11:34 PM

Not a expert. I know that all older train sets are highly collectible. I have a beat up Lionel set I had a a kid that I think priceless. We have two train dealers alone in Utah. I'm sure where your at there are a lot more. lionelcollectors.org won't give you appraisals but has other info. Good luck with your search.

**Too Many Projects** · #3 01-28-2022, 01:04 AM

Your best source of info may be a local club, swap meets, and open houses.
Here is a link to 1 such club and at the bottom of the page is a link to their open houses and swap meets.

https://coltrains.com/special-events

**169indy** · #4 01-28-2022, 02:46 AM

Your Best value for returns are on High end NOS like H.O. Scale Brass Steam locomotives and Diesels in factory paint and in pristine condition. Likewise TINPLATE i.e. O or O27 scale Vintage American Flyer and Lionel can be very desirable also.

I liken it to a family that might gain access to a Bunch of Vintage "OLD" car parts in pretty GM boxes but no access to the knowledge or desire just to throw the baby out with the bath water.

Look to a local Model Railroad CLub in the appropriate "scale" and reach out to the membership or officers of the club for a preview and independent input.
BE mindful with "Hobby Shops" and "Swap meet sellers". (Said in the most respectful way possible)

Jim

**Steve Shauger** · #5 01-28-2022, 01:50 PM

Nicholas Trains may help with values. This is also the home of K & G Speed Associates.

http://www.nicholassmithtrains.com/store/

**Teddy** · #6 01-28-2022, 01:53 PM

Willis Hobbies in Mineola should be able to help

**Mr70** · #7 01-28-2022, 02:29 PM

There's alot of interest in pre/post war metal trains.Plastic,not so much.
Facebook has many loyal train pages that can help you bypass any brokers,and trust me,there are 1000's of them.