The Difference Between A Model Train Collector & Enthusiast

By: Bill Murphy

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.

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 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.

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 - 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 - Serious damage, may not even work. Likely only used for parts to repair better specimens.

How Containers And Packaging Are Graded

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

* LIKE NEW - May have a bit of wear but no major blemishes.

* EXCELLENT - Packaging is complete but may show 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 discolorations on original items.

* R - A replica, not the original packaging.

If you're starting out with model train collecting, knowing your grades is important. Then pick the era and/or brand you want to pursue and get started.

Article Source: http://www.retirementlivingarticledirectory.com

Bill Murphy offers tips about train scenery building and more Model Railway subjects at TheModelRailroader.com. Surf over to www.themodelrailroader.com to get your a free copy of my report "Model Railroad Design Secrets"

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