Lionel prewar 259e

[alcofanschdy]

i just picked up a nice 259e and was wondering how to tell what year it was made.  What am I looking for?  Thanks

Bruce

[teledoc]

The first issue was 1933-1934 in Gloss Black, also made 1936-1938, and additionally in 1939-1940.  Some, but not all 1934 issues had a misspelled Gauge on the bottom pickup as GUAGE, which would definitely put it at 1934.   1936 issue were Satin Black; also in Gunmetal Gray.  The 1937 "uncaltalogued" issue was Flat Black.

[alcofanschdy]

Thanks, looks like mine was made 1939-40