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Does A Model Train Collector Have To Actually Run His Trains?

By: Bill Murphy

There is a subtle, but important difference between model train enthusiasts and model train collectors. Collectors are generally more concerned about the "collectability" of an item - how rare it is and what shape it's in - where enthusiasts are all about operating their model railway.

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.

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 these groups do is create standards by which equipment can be rated. The equipment is often rated separately from the packaging it came in, if the box is still intact, and those that are still in the original box, never having been removed, fetch the highest prices.

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 - Scratches and other signs of normal wear, but no major damage.

* FAIR - Some damage and wear, possibly scratched but still working well.

* POOR - Damaged, possibly not working. Generally only to be used for parts to repair better quality model trains.

How Containers And Packaging Are Graded

* NEW - Original packaging complete with no damage or fading.

* LIKE NEW - Original packaging, may have some slight wear.

* 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 - Some elements may be missing, some wear and possibly even minor mildew damage.

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

* R - A replica, not the original packaging.

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!

Article Source: http://www.health-fitness-for-all.com

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

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