Lionel O guage tinplate #153 engine

[Anonymous]

I recently uncovered a prewar Lionel O guage tinplate engine. It is olive in color, red trimmed cab windows. 0-4-0. Its numbered 153. Fair condition-all original. Can anyone tell me its history, ballpark value etc. If more info needed please ask. Thanks!

[Algonquin]

Hi Thomas,

I have a copy of TM's A Collector's Guide and History to Lionel Trains, Volume I: Prewar O Gauge. Per this guide, the 153 loco was introduced in 1924 and ran for two years. It was similar to the 152 introduced in 1917 except that the 153 had a hand reverse.

I have no information on price. You may want to search E-bay or get a hold of one of the TM or Greenberg price guides. I believe the Greenberg guide has recently been revised and should be available on this site.

Regards,

Tim Pignatari

[Anonymous]

Hi Thomas,

The 153 is listed for between $100 and $160 in the latest Greenberg pocket price guide. The guide lists three colors -- dark green, gray, or mojave. Another book I have also lists 153s in peacock and maroon, both about a third higher in price than the other colors.

Neil Besougloff
editor, Classic Toy Trains