When you think of collecting quality model trains, Bachmann trains are one of the first brands mentioned by experienced collectors. Bachmann accessories, specifically Plasticville USA, have become collector's items. For those of you who are new to the world of model trains, you're probably thinking, "what the heck are Plasticville accessories, and what makes these products so darn special?"
Bachmann Industries was founded in 1833 and sold specialized vanity and ornamental products. However, contrary to popular belief that it has manufactured model trains for over 150 years, this company did not actually make its first model train until 1952, after it had achieved some success with its scenery and accessory products under the Plasticville USA brand.
Most people do not realize that Plasticville products mark Bachmann's first venture into the model train market. After World War II, executives at Bachmann wanted to expand their expertise with plastic products, so they chose miniature plastic fences hoping to capitalize upon the popular holiday trend where consumers enjoyed displays underneath the Christmas tree.
Bachmann's plastic fence kit was subsequently unveiled in the November 23, 1946 issue of the "Saturday Evening Post". Ironically, the advertisement showed the fence next to a Lionel model train along with other toys made of plastic. The following year, as Bachmann continued to market this "Christmas fence", consumers began to realize this accessory would be perfect for the model train layout. The company, realizing a consumer trend developing, quickly seized on this angle and began marketing its product for model railroad hobbyists.
Throughout the 1950s, Bachmann expanded its Plasticville line to reflect the changing times. However, these items were not collector's items yet. It would take a full two decades before fans and enthusiasts began to covet the Plasticville charm and nostalgia, which then created demand especially among the rarer accessories. This collector's market has continued to thrive vigorously. There is a robust market for Plasticville products on eBay. No longer do collectors have to rely purely on model train shows to find and acquire these coveted items. In addition, the Plasticville Collector's Association was formed in 1999 and still remains the only organization of its kind dedicated to this specific Bachmann accessory.
Although Plasticville 1950s products have become collectibles, the demand does not necessarily hold true for the company's modern products currently available on the market. Today, Plasticville products are manufactured in China since Bachmann's parent company is Kader Holding Company Ltd. of Hong Kong. In addition, these products are not made the same way they were during the post-World War II era, as the material used for the plastic has changed. Many of the 1950s accessories were even re-issued as reproduction pieces for Plasticville's 50th anniversary in 1997 with the only difference being that these products displayed a "Made in China" etching.
So, inspect your collection carefully to ensure it is an original Plasticville product that was manufactured in the United States. If you discover your product is an original, you may have several Plasticville aficionados eager to acquire your collection for a pretty penny!
Gabriel O. Delaney is the author of "Model Train Secrets Exposed" which teaches you everything you wanted to know about Bachmann model trains, including valuable information on how to save the most time and money with this hobby.
To receive Gabriel's free gift, "The Secrets of Successful Model Railroading", and "Building Your First Model Railroad" video tutorial, visit http://www.ultimatemodeltraintips.com.
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You have an awesome collection, it would be nice if you shared your collection on a site like http://www.whohasswag.com so that people could examine each individual piece and comment about it.
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