Date of this Gateman?

[jimhaleyscomet]

Anyone know what era this gateman is from?  There is writing on the side of the celler cover but it is not legible.

Jim H

 

[underworld]

Is there a number stamped anywhere?

underworld

[jimhaleyscomet]

I do not see one.  There is some embossed lettering on the celler cover (one the right) but I can not make it out. 

Jim H 

[1688torpedo]

 Hello Jim!   Your Gateman is from the mid-30's as that is when they first came out & yours has the Brass sign which is indicative of early production as well as the tall chimney. Take Care.

[jimhaleyscomet]

I found the number 045 on the underside which I believe means this is from 1935-1942.  I believe that makes this my oldest piece and my only Pre War piece.

Jim H 

[envfocus]

Two other features that help date the 45 gateman are the sign post and the wording on the sign.  The brass diamond-shape sign was only offered from 1935-1939.  From 1939 on, the sign was replaced with a crossbuck design.  The pole itself was originally offered in 1935 as a girder, but by 1937, it was changed to a solid post (like yours).  What's interesting on yours is the wording.  Originally, only the word "FOR" was on the lower left segment of the diamond.  In 1936, Lionel changed it to "FOR THE".  Yours appears to be a "transition" piece since it has the solid pole (1937-1939), but has the older wording (1935-1937).  So, it would appear yours is most likely from 1937 give or take a year.

The coal bin/toolbox on the side of the shanty (I bellieve you referred to it as the celler) should read as follows "Automatic Gateman-Made in the U.S. of America-The Lionel Corporation-New York".  What's neat about this accessory is that it is the FIRST Lionel accessory ever offered with an animated figure.  Take care.

[jimhaleyscomet]

Two other features that help date the 45 gateman are the sign post and the wording on the sign.  The brass diamond-shape sign was only offered from 1935-1939.  From 1939 on, the sign was replaced with a crossbuck design.  The pole itself was originally offered in 1935 as a girder, but by 1937, it was changed to a solid post (like yours).  What's interesting on yours is the wording.  Originally, only the word "FOR" was on the lower left segment of the diamond.  In 1936, Lionel changed it to "FOR THE".  Yours appears to be a "transition" piece since it has the solid pole (1937-1939), but has the older wording (1935-1937).  So, it would appear yours is most likely from 1937 give or take a year.

The coal bin/toolbox on the side of the shanty (I bellieve you referred to it as the celler) should read as follows "Automatic Gateman-Made in the U.S. of America-The Lionel Corporation-New York".  What's neat about this accessory is that it is the FIRST Lionel accessory ever offered with an animated figure.  Take care.

The words are hard to read, but with your assistance I see that is exactly what they say. 

Thank you so much for the information.  I will date it as 1937.  Visitors really get a kick when you say "That piece is from 1937" or 1956 or what ever.  While my gateman accessory has a bit of intermittant rust, it is still very operational...even the light under the lamp.  

Jim H 

[underworld]

Good deal! I guess you really have a precise date on it now!!!!!

underworld

[Anonymous]

Jim,

       I think your gateman may be 1935 production, because the figure appears to be the composition type( looks rough/crude and the head is somewhat large, both arms swing).  However, the sign is what throws me. I think someone may have changed the sign at some point.  It is a very nice gateman nonetheless.  Have fun with it.