MTH ELECTRIC TRAINS

The No. 200 Wood Gondola, first cataloged in 1901, is perhaps the rarest of toy train collectibles. Less than 10 of the two model types are known to exist today. The gondola was produced in both motorized and non-motorized versions. Two types were designed, Type I was approximately 15 inches in length, while Type II - which debuted in 1902 - measured out at 17 1/2 inches in length. Neither type was ever cataloged again and many myths exist regarding the gondola including its finish and lettering style which have helped add to its legend as a rare collectible. Now, for the first time in more than a century, the No. 200 Wood Gondola will return to the rails as part of the 2003 Tinplate Traditions lineup. Based on the Type II design, the Tinplate Traditions No. 200 Wood Gondola will be constructed of wood and feature replicas of the brass corner braces, steps, handrails, journals and controller knob. The body will rest atop a die-cast frame measuring just over 11 1/2 inches in length. Designed for operation on the earliest of track, the No. 200 will include a circle of 2 7/8 2-rail track measuring 34 inches in diameter. And, though the original No. 200 was powered from a dry-cell battery, the Tinplate Traditions No. 200 will obtain its power from any separately sold AC transformer.