Hi All! So I joined this group seeking answers. I hope im posting in the right place. So today on Craigslist I found a listing for a Lionel Set for only $50. I thought that was strange so i went to take a look. what I found was a perfect unused Lionel set that was cobranded with the Mervyns name. The seller had no clue what "Lionel" was, so was selling the set cheap. I bought it. and now cannot find ANYTHING about the set online. All i know is that it supposedly was only one of 300 sets made, and is worth alot more than 50 bucks. Now my question to you all is: What did I just buy, and how much is it worth?!?Thank you,- John
In a quick search the only thing I could find out about Mervyns is that they went bankrupt in 2008.
Lionel has been making special sets for department stores almost since their beginning (1900). Many of the most valuable sets contained "uncataloged" items. Macy's, Wannamakers, Sears and J.C. Penney's just to name a few all had special runs over the years.
What's most important is a set's contents. If you can give us the numbers off of the locomotive(s) and cars we can tell you more about your set. For example, a locomotive might be numbered 2018, 244, 2333, 8005 or something similar. On steam locos, the number is usually below the cab windows. On diesels it could be just about anywhere on the shell and/or the frame. Freight cars often have longer numbers like 6464125 but not always. Also, if you have the set box the number of the set should be on the end of the box. Condition is also important in determining value. If you have the ability to take and post photos that would also be very helpful.
By the way, welcome aboard!
Becky
Trains, trains, wonderful trains. The more you get, the more you toot!
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