Lionel Trains
Ives (1868-1928) in Bridgeport, Connecticut, produced a wide variety of well-known model trains, ranging from tinplate and cast-iron carpet trains to the firs o-gauge electric system in the US, launched in 1910. Ives passenger sets can be worth $300 to over $3,000. Exceptional early models can fetch over $10,000. In 1928, the company was taken over by the Lionel Corporation (1900-1969) of New York. Lionel dominated the American model train market after World War I, producing trains in O gauge (13/8 in/35 mm) from 1915. Lionel also introduced its own nonstandard size, cleverly named the American Standard Gauge (2 1/8 in [57 mm]) in 1906. Today pre-1969 Lionel trains are some of the most sought after, renowned for their accuracy and fine build-quality. A Lionel electric O-gauge metal die-cast steam locomotive from the 1930's can be worth $150-350, depending on the model and condition. An 1835E Standard-Gauge steam locomotive in excellent condition can fetch around $800-1,000, while rarer locomotive and tender sets can sell for $1,500-6,000 or more.
