Hello,
I have a complete set of reefer cars I bought in 85.
There are 16 brand new reefers all different, they make up the favorite spirit set. These have never been used. I am just breaking out my trains to get started again as my son is interested.
My first task is to get the sets we used as kids back up and running.
Is this set of reefers worth anything or should I let my son use them?
Thanks!
Jim
Well, how old is your son? And who made the cars?
My guess is, they have some value but not enough that you’re going to retire on the income from it. Personally, I’d probably get more enjoyment from having them on my layout than from any monetary gain I might get from them. If they are from a quality manufacturer and you’re afraid of breakage, then keep them in the boxes until your son has shown that he’s careful with the trains.
You might look on eBay and see if anyone else is selling a set of these. Watch how the price goes and you’ll get some idea of what yours are worth.
EDIT - There is a single one of these on eBay right now, going for the opening bid of $15. There are still 4 days left in the auction, so it may go higher. The one in the auction looks like O-gauge Lionel - right?
Thanks for the reply.
They are lionels.
I bought them because I thought they were neat!
I was wondering if it was a good buy.
Jim
Well, since you have the whole set in boxes in mint condition, they probably are worth owning. Somewhere out there is a collector who will meet your price. Now, you have to ask yourself whether you would rather have the cash, or keep the whole set for your own layout.
For now, though, I would keep them in boxes and get the rest of the layout up and running. The cars won’t lose value while you do that!