You may have wondered as you gaze over the vast array of model trains and layout you either inherited or built, what’s all this stuff worth? I mean, you either know or suspect what you paid or someone close to you did, but what value should you attach to it should you want to sell it or insure it? Fortunately there are several ways to help you determine the worth of a model railroad layout.
The first thing you may want to do is seek out collectors or model railroad enthusiasts in your area. A quick check of the phone book or a quick Google search may be all you need to do to get started. You may come across someone there who can help you assign a value.
You might also contact the Train Collectors Association, and they can provide some help.
Or if you prefer the do-it-yourself route there’s always looking into the model railroading section on eBay (and other auction sites across the web) and see what similar pieces are going for at auction. You can sell selected pieces fairly easily at these venues, but your mileage may vary. Sometimes you can get more than an item is worth, other times less.
You also may want to consider donating your trains to an organization that will appreciate them. Many museums would love to have examples of rolling history displayed prominently.
