WOW, I received dozens of responses to my original post. Most agree that the "worth" of our trains is, indeed, in their play value and the enjoyment we get from them.
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John
I agree the Play Value and enjoyment is the most important factor in the worth of our trains. 99% of my postwar trains were purchased, well used, and would be about as valuable as the price I paid and some less. My other items like some of my antique furniture and used tools also would be worth less than what I paid.
But I have a several items that are worth dozens of times (based on recent completed eBay auctions) what I paid for them and they also have a great amount of literal Play Value. These are vintage 1970s, good quality stereo receivers. They also have great true Play Value by playing enjoyable music on LPs, Cassette and reel to reel tapes, CDs, AM and FM radio and streaming. Some turntables have all done well on real value and Play Value too, Real Win Wins.
Charlie
The hard thing is you have to sell it to find out it's true value.
Everything else is opinion and speculation.
What a fun question - and an interesting article. At the risk of restarting this thread, I am happy with the consequences of the many decisions about obtaining or getting rid of different things on the layout - trains and accessories - over the years as I've changed themes or been in different economic circumstances.
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