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?
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
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”.
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?
Yeah, that’s the kind of thing I’m looking for, guys; thanks!
If anyone else has any leads, please let me know.
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
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!
plallin,
Been seeing these on e-bay lately. Times running out on this one,