|
|
The largest and most powerful model loco-motive ever built," proclaimed the 1931 catalog that introduced the 400E. Lionel spared no hyperbole in announcing its new steam engine: "Never before in the history of model trainbuilding has such a powerful locomotive been offered the American boy. This new 400E is the master ofthem all Û a veritable giant of the rails. "In its creation, Lionel engineers have faithfully reproduced in steel, copper, brass and nickel, all ofthose fine and minute details that are found only in the largest, most modern railroad engines. Its long,low lines, its beauty of color and design and its mechanical precision opens the door for every boy to greater fun and enjoyment."The catalog cover depicted a real engineer praisingt he model to a pair of knicker-clad boys: "'Just like mine' says Bob Butterfield, engineer of the 20th Century Limited." Apparently the engineer of theNew York Central 4-6-4 Hudson ignored the fact that the 400E was short one set of drivers, to enable it to negotiate standard gauge curves. The inside of the catalog featured three more engineers praising therealism of Lionel's models, with the slogan "Lionel trains are the trains railroad men buy for their boys."While the 400E became best known for pulling the Blue Comet passenger set, it was also one of only two steamers to be cataloged with the large 200-seriesfreight cars. A top-of-the-line 400E freight outfit would set you back $72.50 in 1931 Û about the same price as a train trip from Chicago to San Francisco,including a sixteen-day stay in the city by the bay. During the nine years it was cataloged, the 400E was offered in numerous variations of paint and trim,three of which are offered here.
NOV. 09
|
| Price: |
$809.96 |
| Quantity: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
