Lionel Classics and Other Rare Model Trains Appear at Turner Auctions + Appraisals

Available with Turner Auctions + Appraisals this March is a selection of Lionel Classics model trains. One leading lot includes six Lionel Classics pieces in their original boxes and packaging. There is a 1-381E locomotive, as well as passenger, Pullman, observation, and baggage cars. The Classics line recalls the company’s Standard Gauge trains from the early 20th century. These models helped establish a bustling collecting market for trains before the Great Depression devastated the global economy. Other notable Lionel trains in this auction include a Hiawantha passenger set, a Milwaukee Special set, and a pre-war locomotive set in dark red. 

From 3rd Rail, a division of Sunset Models, comes an “O” scale brass Southern Pacific locomotive in mint condition. It has extensive brass detailing and white lettering along the sides. Train collectors will also find Mike’s Train House (MTH) die-cast steam locomotives, Kusan Model Trains (KMT) streamlined passenger cars, and more. This sale presents over 250 items from the estate of Northern California collector Armond Conti. He built the collection of model trains over 75 years. Passion fueled the curation. Conti felt that trains were “big, noisy, and kind of cool,” according to the sale’s press release. For the complete catalog and to place a bid, visit Turner Auctions + Appraisals.