Lionel Trains continued celebrating their 125th anniversary with the release of their Volume 2 catalog in mid July.
First, an interesting note: the second Lionel catalog has typically been called Volume 2. This one was called “July Release.” I wonder if there will be another catalog release before the end of the year? Stay tuned.
This 44-page catalog kicks off with a biggie–a Santa Fe Super Chief set, similar to the Triplex Super set released in 2024. This one includes three powered engines, one unpowered engine, and eight pieces of rolling stock, with the option to add two different Pullman two-pack sets.
If a Santa Fe F3 isn’t your style, there are six other built-to-order roadnames available, in AA, B, and SuperBase B options.
More roadnames of the Legacy SD50 were announced, but I was more curious about the SD38s shown on p. 16-17. This isn’t a common locomotive, and neither were the majority of the railroads that bought/used them. Four of the five roadnames announced are prototypical (Cargill was not). I would love to get one of these to review and examine, since they will have road-specific details.
The covered hoppers on p. 24-25 seem to be different from the previous Weaver tooling version from years ago. It would be interesting to compare both versions and note what’s been changed.
Given that 2026 marks the semiquincentennal (250th anniversary) of the founding of the United States, it’s not a surprise to see products commemorating the date. Two starter sets–steam and diesel–plus other rolling stock. I admit the Fireworks Sound & Light Boxcar (No. 2628040) looks pretty cool and I’d love to see that in action. You’ll also have your choice of other anniversary products, such as the Army’s 250th on a boxcar.
I can’t help but mention the Star Wars line of products. The “walking brakeman” car has been repurposed with R2-D2 on the roof, and there are also two new locomotives. The locomotives are a clever re-use of the Phantom tooling, last used in 2018 from what I can tell. While Star Wars products aren’t for everyone, it’s a popular franchise. This line might appeal to newer and possibly younger audiences.
Though this isn’t a large catalog, there are some interesting releases tucked inside. Perhaps we will get a third catalog later this year with the final releases relating to Lionel’s 125th anniversary (holiday or Polar Express items, maybe?). I’d love to hear your thoughts.
For anyone interested in HO, Lionel also released a separate HO catalog.
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Lionel releases Volume 2 catalog
