Any model train collectors out there? I need expert advice.?

Question

I have my father's complete train set, from 1930, and I understand it's quite collectible. Many cars, scenery pieces, track. It has been in storage for years and is in pretty good shape, with a little surface corrosion, but lots and lots of dust and the metal is dull. I haven't actually seen it work in 20 years, but I'm sure it woudn't take much to get it going. I've finally decided to let it go. I've ordered a guide to pricing, but so much depends on condition. Here are my questions (thanks for your patience, and serious answers only please):

1) It looks bad now because of the dirt, does that affect how I rate the condition?
2) Should I clean it, and if so,
3) How can I best clean it up for sale without damaging anything?
4) Is eBay the best sale site?
5) Should I sell it as a set or by the piece?

Thanks for any advice.

Answer 1

Dirt/ dust should be removed with something very fine. Perhaps a microfibre duster, and be very gentle.

A very fine sandpaper will bring the tracks back to a shine, as well as enabling them to function properly.

I would get it valued somewhere by someone in the industry to know it's true value.

And I believe you should sell it as a set, if it's all from the 30's. (Not additional pieces from various years)

Answer 2

Hello.
Dirt never affects the value. In some instances a certain patina is more desirable than something all shined up, so you'd be better off wiping only the grimiest parts with a mild detergent and warm water, being careful not to get any spillage in the electrical motors.
A set will always fetch more than selling the pieces off individually, especially if it is in its original box and had the labels intact.
eBay is a good site to sell it on but you've got to know its resale value before you can ask a fair price. Taking it to a dealer or an antiques appraiser would be best to first determine its worth. He or she might even buy it from you on-sight.

Answer 3

dust does not affect the actual value. however, it might affect how much someone is willing to pay for it. would you pay more for a clean shiny used car, or a dirty, grimy one?
try selling it locally on www.craigslist.com first. no fee to post from craigslist & no messing with shipping, b/c it's all local.
sell it as a set, unless you have something very original and valuable that you could sell separately, while keeping the set in tact

Answer 4

Congrats on your Doctorate!!!! You are one smart cookie. I think the litter box is a great idea. It will be more fun for her- especially if you get the box with the lid. Pretend like you are playing hide and go seek. Tell her to count to 100 in there (she should be an over achiever like you, right?) and leave a "clue" behind for you. I wouldn't recommend the clumping litter though- unless you want to find the clumps all over your house.

Answer 5

The NMRA has a small guide...