Despite its status as a "fallen flag," CRI&P has its share of hobbyists/collectors. IMHO, its "Full Rocket" paint scheme is one of the all-time best designs. During my post-50 decades, I collected RI trains exclusively because the RI served my home town (Peoria, IL). After some threatening medical incidents, I sold nearly all of my trains, action accessories, buildings, and related gear via Stout Auctions so my wife wouldn't be burdened with it all after my passing. Happily, I survived those "medical hiccups." I'm now 81 and realize I probably sold out too soon. However, whether sooner or later, train collections must be disposed of some day, somehow.
My RI collecting years are over, but I kept some RI train sets as mementos. A photo is attached.
Fortunately for you, RI products are often presented for sale on eBay. BTW, MTH produced more RI trains than Lionel, and many of the Premiere Line trains are spectacular models.
Carry on ...
Mike Mottler LCCA 12394
