|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
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 order to be considered "new" the item must be unused, ideally never even removed from its original 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 - No damage, rust or dirt but more than likely used in the past. *VERY GOOD - This level indicates that slight wear but no damage or rust exists. * GOOD - There may be some slight scratches as well as normal wear but no rust. * FAIR - Slightly damaged, worn and possibly scratched but still quite usable. * 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 in the original condition with no damage or fading. * LIKE NEW - Some wear possible, but no major issues. * EXCELLENT - Packaging is in original condition but may have some minor signs of wear. * VERY GOOD - Minor damage possible, maybe even some tape for repairs but still complete. * GOOD - Missing elements, heavy wear and possibly some mildew but complete. * FAIR - Missing pieces, tears and discolorations on original items. * R - Replica of the original packaging, not the real thing. Knowing these grades and having some money to spend will give you a big headstart on collecting model trains. Pick your favorite era or brand and dive right in. Just keep in mind that a collection's value is in the eyes of the collector - it may not be the best investment! Article Source: http://www.articlewheel.com
Bill Murphy offers tips about train scenery building and more Model Railroading topics at TheModelRailroader.com. Surf over to www.themodelrailroader.com to get your a free copy of my report "Model Railroad Design Secrets"
|
  RSS Feeds by Category |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
