Making its debut in Lionel's 1934 catalog, the 1835E still embodied the "accumulation of 33 years of skill, craftsmanship, and experience", but for a more affordable price then its predecessor the 385E. Essentially black except for a single piece of nickel trim on either side of the engine, the 1835E borrowed its tender from the 385E until a year later when the 2-4-2 locomotive adopted its own 1835W tender. While the 385E with its chugger and enameled trimmings cost $28.50, the 1835E "similar to No 385E but without chugger and with black enameled trimmings" was considerably less at $25.00. 

Advertised in Lionel's 1934 catalog as one of the "largest and most powerful locomotives built", the 385 and 1835E's were much less expensive then they're larger counterparts, the 400 and 392E. The 1835E included a patented hinged boiler front, which concealed a working headlight bulb, and colored signal lights and number plates, which were all, illuminated by the same lamp. This 2-4-2 locomotive offered all of the same understated details as the 385E only at price that could appeal to any model-railroading enthusiast. The 1835E's simple body and modest paint scheme allow for the quality and history of this locomotive speak for itself.