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LGB model train sets have perhaps more history then most scale train sets, the LGB stands for - "Lehmann Big Train" or Lehmann Gross Bahn if you want the true German translation. First introduced back in 1968 by Ernst Paul Lehmann Patentwerk in Nuremberg, Germany, LGB model trains are the most popular garden model trains through out parts of the world.

Probably the greatest thing about these sets are their durability, rain and snow these sets will always be running, this of course allows for users to put these bad boys in the garden.

The first locomotive made other the brand was the Austrian 0-4-0 named "Stainz". If your a collector I would advise buying one but be careful as the Stainz are still in production today, be sure to buy an early model if possible.

Back in late 2006, the German company Ernst Paul Lehmann filed for bankruptcy, a few months after that LGB of America (LGBoA) was spun off into its own company. Long story short, LGBoA and a German company both bid on the remaining assets that Ernst Paul Lehmann had, but LGboA lost.

Later in September 2007 an agreement was reached that allowed LGBoA exclusive distribution and service rights in North America. Allow me to list some popular collector LGB model trains.

-LGB 24835 Amtrak GG1 Electric Loco
-LGB Coka Cola Steam Locomotive
-LGB 72741Historic Spreewald Steam Starter Set
-LGB 20271 RHB STEAM LOCO G3/4 HEIDI W/MTS MIB
-LGB 21950 OBB DIESEL LOCO

The sets listing above range in price from $3,000 to $600 currently on Ebay, which is a good place to find collector trains I might add. Fact of the matter is, these sets are great for collecting. Durability and their size allows for great detail to be put into these trains, and allows them to operate outside, which is ideal for gardeners.

If you're having trouble finding these train sets, try looking in local toy stores or on-line stores like Ebay.com, prices may vary but each set is like its own time capsule if you will. Each train tells a story of its time, and this makes the money well worth it, never to late to create a family heirloom.

LGB is here to stay, you could say it's their world, we just happen to live in it. Be very aware that these train sets can be great for collectors or children, however they are also an investment, and should be treated like one. Who knows, years down the line these train sets could be worth double what they are now!

Learn more about this author, Matt Remley.
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