The following are some of the most asked
questions and answers about trains.
We hope they
help newcomers to the hobby of collecting
and operating, or if you have
some trains you want to sell.
2. What information do I need to get an estimated value?
3. Where can I get an estimated value?
4. Buy from a reputable dealer
5. Selling my trains
6. Getting my trains repaired
7. How can RFG HELP
Q. How much are my trains worth?
A. The value
of old electric trains vary in value depending
on their condition and collectability
or desirability. Collectability is mostly
how scarce the item is, while
desirability is how many collectors want
it. There are some other factors
that also effect the value. Depending on
whether the buyer is a collector,
an operator or a dealer. Generally, collectors
will pay more for trains,
they aren't as concerned with making a profit
from the resale. Operators
tend not to want to pay much, because they
are going to run the trains
rather than display them, or hold them as
an investment.
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Q. What
information is needed to approximate the
value of what I have?
A. First, you must determine exactly what items you have. Most engines and cars have numbers on the side which identify them Second, other items can such as accessories can be described. Third, whether you have the original boxes, packing and literature. Forth, the condition of each item. Remember condition is critical, mint, like new, excellent, have precise meanings. For the most part, if the items are worn in any way, their value is greatly diminished.
Q. Where
can I get estimated values?
A. After you have put together a list of what you have, you can use RFG's Values Quotation Service.
Q. Who
should I buy trains from?
A. Buying from a reputable dealer is easier said than done. But most dealers who advertise in train magazines can be checked out with the magazine. Local train shows are another good source. E-BAY and other online auction sites have become very popular. But remember, train grading for condition does not take into account if the train runs or not. So you have to ask. Also can you return it or will they fix it, if it doesn't work. I word of caution. A number of dealers that do not have the best reputation are now on the web. If in doubt, check with RFG.
Q. What if I want to sell my trains?
A. First, be sure you have an idea of what you have and the physical condition of each piece. Remember value is judged almost entirely on physical condition. And most of all, MINT means that it has not been "played with". Again look in the newspaper train magazines or check with a local hobby shop for the names of people who buy trains. Today you can also put then on E-Bay or another auction site. What you'll get for them is partly a function of how much work you want to do. But don't expect to get 100% of the value and remember there are trains that were produced in the thousands, so they may not be rare or desirable.
Q. What
about getting my trains repaired?
A. Thats a tougher question.
Generally Lionel are the easiest trains to
get repaired. American Flyer
and several HO brands pose a problem. HO,
because most of the parts are
not available, and American Flyer because
few hobby shops handle them and
fewer repairmen are familiar with them.
But first check with your local hobby shop.
A. RFG can help you with
buying, selling and repairing your trains.
RFG will assist you in determining
what you have and approximately what it's
worth. RFG has trains for sale
from time to time and we operate a
complete repair service.
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