Ray,
I kind of agree on your assessment. Too many people think their trains are made of gold. I see it all the time at shows too. For the best bargains, I've always liked York. Cars like this one are out there, and for much less. I found a great one for less than half that. The pick up posts are also out there.
Keep looking, George! Let us know what you find!
And why do people always seem (but not in this case) to use the word "vintage" with trains??? That only applies to wine! Caveat emptor, folks!