How do I find out the worth of a Vintage Lionel Train Set?

Question

I found in my (now deceased) fathers garage a complete Lionel Train Set. Says Die Cast Steam Locomotive. There is a model number of 1492. Also has a Tender that says Jersey Central Lines, Gondola w/canisters, Box Car that reads Erie Lockawana EL 9043, Hopper Red CN, Flat Car w/logs and a caboose.

Also on box says Gauge 27; what does that mean?

Purchased sometime between 1970 and 1973. I have not put together yet, but plan to this week to see if it still runs. The instructions are chewed up.....looks like a mouse used it to make a bed in the box. LOL!

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!

Answer 1

Model Railroading is a fast growing hobby. Find the group in your area and see what they would pay to get your set.

I think there ought to be some Yahoo! Groups on Model Railroading if you care to check with them.

I know members of 3 groups here in NM who are now getting ready for the fairs with their displays of trains.

Check at your local fair grounds and see if a group lives there, check the State Fair grounds to see if a group lives there. I mean that literally, they "live" in their display buildings working on the set ups 24/7/365 days of the year.

Answer 2

I am not an expert but did sell an older Lionel Train from the same era as yours, still in its box, on Ebay last year.  It's not the same as yours, but you can probably look it up there to see what it would possibly sell for. Mine sold for just over $200.   Also, if you can locate a train enthusiast's club in your area, there is a good chance someone would help you out more specifically.