Lionel 155 Highway Signal without stripes

[tjl0824]

I just bought a 155 Highway Signal, and there is no stripes on the base. It is the 1955 version, without the feet on the base, and it has the early mechanism. I decided it would best to have an expert opinion before I jump to the conclusion that I have a rare accessory. I purchased it directly from a relative of the original owner, so it is unlikely someone removed the stripes trying to fake a rare variation.

It is surprisingly white considering that these turn a cream color when exposed to light for a long amount of time, so the stripes couldn't have faded off.

The only thing that concerns me is that the Lionel emblem is black, so it was stamped, although I think it would be hard for all 16 stripes to wear completely off without leaving evidence of being there.

So what is your opinion?

Trevor

 

[balidas]

You just have a variation of the signal. This link will give more info.

http://www.postwarlionel.com/cgi-bin/postwar?ITEM=155

[cwburfle]

I did not see where the link provided above listed any variations on the striping.

I think you probably have an interesting factory error. Whether someone is willing to pay a premium (and how much) is a matter of debate.
It should be noted that on some items, the black ink that was used to mark the train was water soluble, and occasionally is so deliate that it will rinse off with plain water.
But, I'd think the Lionel logo would have been damaged if that was done to your signal.

I have washed the markings off more than one Lionel train. Mistakes happen.

[KRM]

tjl0824

I just bought a 155 Highway Signal, and there is no stripes on the base. It is the 1955 version, without the feet on the base, and it has the early mechanism. I decided it would best to have an expert opinion before I jump to the conclusion that I have a rare accessory. I purchased it directly from a relative of the original owner, so it is unlikely someone removed the stripes trying to fake a rare variation.

It is surprisingly white considering that these turn a cream color when exposed to light for a long amount of time, so the stripes couldn't have faded off.

The only thing that concerns me is that the Lionel emblem is black, so it was stamped, although I think it would be hard for all 16 stripes to wear completely off without leaving evidence of being there.

So what is your opinion?

Trevor

 

Trevor, Here you go. Don't sound like there is only one out there.

http://www.tandem-associates.com/lionel/lionel_trains_155_acc.htm

[tjl0824]

That's the variation I'm thinking about, a few of my books list it, but I wasn't sure if that meant just the stripes weren't put on, or nothing black was put on.

Trevor

[balidas]

cwburfle

I did not see where the link provided above listed any variations on the striping.

Under the features heading it's established that the signal was offered with a white or cream base with black pole ect. In the yellow box beneath that the variation is listed as a white base and black pole. No mention of  black stripes.