Antique Model Trains
Model trains often become family heirlooms that have been handed down from one generation to the next. What makes this such a great tradition is that each generation can add something to new the collection. Your model railroad will end up with collectible items covering different periods of time in history. A train collection is something the family can add to and pass on indefinitely.
There are several ways to build your collection in addition to receiving a family heriloom. Some people search estate sales and while great deals can be found it is not the easiest way to look for antique toy trains. Also, it may be difficult to confirm the age and condition of a train before the sale begins. If that's the case, it can be difficult to determine if the train is in good working order buying it.
It is not uncommon to find a nice antique train set at an antique store. Even if the store doesn't have the antique toy train that you are looking for it doesn't hurt to talk with the owner. They might be able to locate the specific train you are looking for. Leave them your contact information and exactly what you are looking for.
Some antique toy train collectors also search the flea markets. While collectors can occassionaly find the rare "diamond in the rough", most of the trains that show up at flea markets are usually in pretty rough shape.
Another place to find antique model trains is auctions. Often, auctioneers will wait until they have several collections of toy trains and then hold a special model railroad auction. Check your local newspaper often for auction listings in your area. Auction ads often contain long lists of the items included in the sale.
Today, one of the best resources for finding antique model trains is the Internet. The web is an incredibly useful tool for locating and purchasing antique toy trains. You can find many model train dealers who have websites listing the types and prices of model trains, tracks, scenery, accessories, and parts that they have available for purchase. Many of these same dealers also have retail stores you can visit if they're located near you.
Probably the most popular, and easiest way to find the exact antique train you're looking for is to search EBay. Sellers of all types will list nearly every kind of antique or collectible trains you could imagine on EBay. To see what we're talking about, use the search box at the top of this page right now to find out if what you're looking for is currently available. Or, use the menu on the left to search our store pages.
If you are looking for a train that is just for display then you will want to make sure that it is in pristine condition. View the images of the train to verify the paint is not scratched or chipped, that there aren't any dents in the casing, or if its a wooden toy train ensure that wood hasn't splintered or warped. If you are purchasing the train on-line ask to see several pictures of the toy train from several different angles. If possible try to get the seller to guarantee the condition of the antique train.
If you are planning to add the train to your already working layout, make sure the antique toy train you are about to purchase is in good working order. And, remember, if the antique train includes a transformer, make sure the transformer works.
