MTH ELECTRIC TRAINS

In the O gauge section of its catalogs, Lionel noted that "Lionel freight cars are made in two sizes - the 2651 series and the 2800 series. Cars in the 2800 series are larger than those in the 2651 series, their couplers are higher, and the two sizes therefore cannot be used together." The catalog cautioned boys to check which size matched their locomotive, "before ordering additional O gauge freight equipment." In the 1939 catalog, 2651 series cars cost $2.75 with electric couplers, and 2800 series cars were a dollar more.

This 2653 O gauge coal car came equipped with electric remote control couplers and an opening hopper bottom. Catalog numbers, initially in the 600 series, were changed to the 2600 series when new automatic couplers were added in 1938. Part of the 2600 rubber stamped freight car series from M.T.H., this car features baked enamel finishing, stamped steel body and chassis, metal wheels and axels, and operating metal latch couplers. "In designing this marvelous new series of Lionel 'O' Gauge Freight Cars, our aim has been to express the individuality of every type of commercial freight car used on all railroads. Many new features never before carried out to such perfection are apparent in these cars."