For toy train collectors looking to up their game to include more and collectible pieces without breaking the bank, consider Lionel’s 2227W from 1954.
Set No. 2227W, which had a retail price of $69.50 ($795 in 2023 dollars), relied on an iconic A-A combination of Santa Fe F3 diesels as its motive power. The No. 2353P/2353T thrilled youngsters across the U.S., thanks to a gorgeous rendition of the famous silver-and-red Warbonnet paint scheme as well as dual motors equipped with Magne-Traction and operating headlights and horn.
The classic diesels pulled four outstanding freight cars and a brand-new version of the popular porthole caboose lettered for Lionel Lines. One model operated – the new no. 3562-25 gray barrel car with blue lettering. The No. 6356 New York Central stockcar had just entered the line; the No. 6468 Baltimore & Ohio double-door automobile boxcar had made its debut in 1953. Finally, the otherwise quite ordinary No. 6456 Lehigh Valley hopper included in this deluxe outfit tended to be the scarce -75 variation painted red with yellow markings. All in all, an impressive, great-looking, and entertaining freight train for anyone lucky enough to receive it then or own it now.
Learn more about freight cars from 1954.
