Rich,
You've got me laughing. Many years ago, my hobby was collecting original antique first model Winchester 1873s, in 44-40. I thought nothing of plunking down $10,000 for a specimen in all original VG condition. (They go for $15,000 to $25,000 now. A mint condition 73, if you can find one, would go for $50,000.)
But no, I ain't putting more than $300 or $400 into an old school train layout, engines and cars included.
So no, I ain't paying $1.00 per pin. :-)
Collecting true antique firearms is definitely a profit deal. Playing with the trains is definitely not. Its a luxury.
Mannyrock