Standard Guage

[palallin]

Interesting find. This set--if, in fact, it came as a set--is from the early '20s, the transition time between the Early Period and the Classic Period. The engine would be one of the first Classic Period versions produced, but teh freight cars are all from the Early Period 100-series. These sets aren't all that common.

[lionelsoni]

The 81 is a rheostat, or variable resistor. It was indeed used to control speed. It was wired in series with the transformer, which was not continuously variable like later transformers. I find rheostat operation very agreeable and would suggest that anyone who has the opportunity try it out.

[Anonymous]

Locomotive is electric type with No. 8E on the side.
Caboose has No. 117 stamped on bottom.
Gondola is Rock Island Line No. 65784 with No. 112 stamped on bottom.
I have pictures for above.
There is another item that seems to be a primitive speed controller. It is labelled Lionel No. 81.
How can I post pictures here?

[palallin]

Let's start with the basics. Can you provide the numbers off the sides of the engine and cars along with descriptions of type, color, and cleanliness. Pics would be best, of course.

Also, tell us about anything that lacks numbers. Are any original boxes present?

[phillyreading]

Welcome tommfm,
Yes there is a market for Lionel Standard Gauge, you can try ebay.com and make sure you put that buyer pays shipping or a local train show but you will have to rent a table for the day. The only problem with ebay is for beginners as how to post a photo of the item, it must be in jpeg mode for the computer. One other thing about ebay, the method of payment, don't ship until after being paid, I used to use PayPal, the only thing with PayPal is that you will need to set up an account with PayPal & I reccomend using a separate checking account as this way if something happens only that account will be affected.
Lee Fritz

[pbjwilson]

Is there a market for them. Thats the understatement of the year. Standard Gauge Lionels have a huge following and are much sought after. Condition plays a big part in value, but even scratched and rusted standard gauge trains fetch some big bucks. See if you can find some numbers on the engine and cars. Someone on the forum will be able to give you current values for them. Hey - Welcome to the Forum

[Anonymous]

My brother-in-law left me a set of Standard Gauge Lionel trains. Since I am an ***, I have no use for them. Is there a market for them?