Model railway valuations are determined by a number of important factors. Sometimes the serial number on the side of a locomotive can make a massive difference to a model train value. Similarly, the condition of the model and its box will significantly affect its ultimate valuation.

Ultimately, though, an old train sets value is determined by the market itself – and what someone is willing to pay for it.

As one of the leading international providers of model railway valuations, Warwick & Warwick can be trusted to supply an accurate assessment of how much an individual item or collection may be worth.

Having been in business since 1958, our team of model railway experts has more than 50 years’ experience between them and our reputation is second to none. So, if you need a Hornby train set valuation or you want an antique toy train appraisal, you can be 100 per cent confident in our knowledge and expertise.

Model railway buildings, scenery and other model train accessories can also command surprisingly high prices – so please let us know if you have any other items of interest that you may consider selling.

Because modellers and collectors can restore models or use them for spares, even damaged trains or old items can still command decent prices in one of our model railway auctions.

Thanks to our free valuation service to all UK residents, you can now gain expert advice on the best way to achieve the maximum possible returns on any item – and you won’t be under any obligation to sell.

In fact, our aim is to help you to make an informed decision; whether that’s by selling in a public auction, a sale by private treaty or simply keeping the collection in the family to pass on to another generation. 

Get your old train sets valued for free

At Warwick & Warwick we are often asked: What are my model trains worth? – and our experts are always happy to help in any way they can.

Whether you have inherited a magnificent piece of model railway memorabilia or are in need of a Hornby clockwork train set value we can be of assistance.

If you’ve ever wanted to discover a model train set value, please get in touch and arrange for one of our free model railway valuations. 

There’s no charge to UK residents, it can be conducted at a time which is convenient to you and you may end up being pleasantly surprised!

Get the experts on your side, send an email to our model train appraisers or call 01926 499031 today.

A quick model train value guide

As previously mentioned, there are a number of factors which will affect an old train set's value – and it is important to understand these if you’re thinking about getting a model railways valuation.

The main factors which influence an item’s value are:

  • Condition
  • Age
  • Rarity
  • Modifications
  • Production run variations

Although condition has the biggest influence on value, a model train’s parts can be valuable too – especially if they are rare or in short supply.

Variations in colour, a unique number or rare feature will also help model locomotives to fetch a higher price.

Popular types of model trains for sale include brands like Airfix, Bachmann, Bassett-Lowke, Dapol, Golden Age, Hornby, K'sLeeds, Lima, Rivarossi, Tri-ang, Slaters, Mainline and Wrenn.

Collectors also prefer certain types of trains to others, such as the O Gauge model trains which were made in the 1950s and are always highly sought after.

In reality though most model train collectors do so purely for the love of collecting and not because of the value of the items.


Where to get a free model railways valuation

As one of the leading providers of model railway valuations, Warwick & Warwick will happily advise you about the best way to achieve the best possible return.

Although you won’t be obliged to sell, you will be offered the chance to do so in one of our public auctions or via a private treaty sale, if required.

Written valuations for probate and insurance purposes are also available upon requestfor a modest fee.

In person at one of our offices

Callers are welcome to visit our Warwick office during normal office hours – 9am to 5pm from Monday to Friday – to request a model railways valuation.

We prefer to take our time inspecting your collection. You will be issued with a receipt and your valuation report will be sent to you for consideration.

If of suitable value, we may arrange to transport smaller items to our offices by courier service so you can take advantage of our professional expertise.

Home Visits

Our valuers are extremely busy and rarely conduct home visits. Valuations are usually conducted at our Warwick office where our staff have access to the right conditions, equipment and reference material to provide you with an accurate model railway valuation. 

Contact our team of model train experts

Having been trusted to value collectables since 1958, our team of model train experts have seen many interesting locomotives and eye-catching model railway layouts over the years.

With more than 50 years’ experience between them and a proven track record for providing accurate model railway valuations, our experts can be trusted and relied upon to give sound advice.

Whilst they will happily provide any assistance you may need to sell model railway items, they’ll also recognise the effort, hard work and dedication that goes into creating a collection.

Discover your old train sets value today. If you reside in the UK, email info@warwickandwarwick.com or call 01926 499031 now!