Athearn Model Train Values

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

About 25 years ago, I was given 4 Athearn Model Trains (HO) kits. They are in mint condition in the box and I do not know their value and I am looking to sell them. The four I have are:

1572 Phillips 66, Single Dome Tank Car (Orig price - $2.25)

5013 ATSF El Capitan 40 Ft Box Kit (Orig price - $2.25)

5204 Crisco Scribed Reefer (Orig Price - $2.50)

1578 Southern Pacific 40 ft Single Dome Tank (Orig price - $2.25)

Can anyone tell me how to find their value and sell them? Thanks

2

You can look on ePay, but I’ll say they are worth about the price marked on the box.

Rotor

3

You could take them to a train shop and ask, but I don’t think you’ve got anything to make the Antiques Roadshow crowd swoon with delight.

Athearn blue-box kits are available at train shops and shows for $6-8. The ones you have might fetch that, if Athearn has retired that paint scheme, but the ones on the shelves today have better trucks and knuckle couplers, while yours probably have only horn-hooks. There isn’t going to be a “collectors’ market” for Athearn kits, I’m afraid.

4

Plus Athearn’s decorating (painting and lettering) weren’t that well done compared to more recent cars they’ve produced. You might find an Athearn collector (there are some) who is missing one particular car and would bid it up to say $10 but otherwise Athearn cars of that vintage can be found at any model RR fleamarket in the $3-5 range.

5

Well, i’m not sure but i think around $5?

400th post!

Tjsingle

6

Thanks for the input. I got them as a kid and was not sure what to do with them. Thanks to all who replied.

7

Have you thought of putting them together and then buying a locomotive, track and a power pack?

If nothing else, you’ve got the beginnings of a Christmas Tree layout.

8

There’s a 40ft ATSF “El Capitan” boxcar - built with Kadee couplers installed - on ebay right now with a requested starting bid of $5…and no bidders yet.

9

I agree with Mr. B…Run 'Em!

If you had them as a kid, it’s gotta be worth at least the cash value in sentimental value!

And maybe someday, your kids can run them on their layout. [:D]

Rotor