The Look of Prewar Tinplate for Backdrop

[palallin]

I'm working up some shelves to display my Standard Gauge trains/Accessories in a more organized fashion. I had planned for the top shelf to be backless (it will be atop a peninsula counter), but it occurs to me that a backdrop behind it might be neat. I thought about some of Lionel's prewar catalog covers and that sort of thing: advertising that stylized the big accessories like the power houses and the Hellgates. I know that some of the big-name custom layout builders have used this sort of thing for backdrops and scenery dividers, but I was wondering if such a thing is available off the shelf (allt he ones I've seen pics of were one-offs for specific projects). Some of the old prewar counter displays would be perfect, too, but I sure couldn't afford them! Does anyone reproduce any of those?

[Anonymous]

I've seen metal sign reproductions of old lionel catalog pictures at train shows and on eBay for about $12. each. Not sure how many were prewar. Joe

[Anonymous]

There are 2 nice ones in someones eBay store, $9.99 each, 1934 and 35, 12.5"x16". Search "Lionel tin sign". His store name is Clings N Things. Once on, search "Lionel".

[pbjwilson]

palallin,
The backdrop in this picture is printed cardboard. It measures about 36" X 16". I won it on e-bay. Every once in a while I see something like it on e-bay in the trains section usually under "O gauge other manufacturers". Sometimes they have rolling hills, mountains, cities, etc. It may be what you are looking for?

[palallin]

Yeah, that's the kind of thing I'm looking for, guys; thanks!

If anyone else has any leads, please let me know.

[jimhaleyscomet]

With todays scanners, if you got an old catalog or other picture source perhaps you could make your own and print them out on a good photo printer?

Jim H

[palallin]

Possibly. I don't know if I could get the large size and the color, though. Local options are rather limited. But it's something to think about. Thanks!

[pbjwilson]

plallin,
Been seeing these on e-bay lately. Times running out on this one,

http://cgi.ebay.com/Vintage-SKYLINE-Scenic-Backround-Mountain-Scene_W0QQitemZ6036135137QQcategoryZ19149QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem