Model Train Grading Information

SBS4DCC.com deals in both new and pre-owned model railroad products including locomotives, rolling stock, and structures.

The condition of all of our trains are clearly labeled in the item listing.

This grading is based on a standard format that is used by many dealers and in many related hobby fields.  This format has been developed to help present a general "feel" for the overall condition and is not meant to be inclusive of every detail about the item.

C10 Mint- Brand New is used only for highly collectible items that are in pristine condition.  

C9 Factory New is factory/distributor new. 

C9 New-Old-Stock (NOS) may be used to describe items that are no longer in production but are still in the original packaging that may show additional signs of age or handling.  

C8 Like New is reserved for pre-owned items that have been well kept and clearly show no signs of use.  

Everything else, including items that have been used for displays and demonstrations by SBS4DCC.com, is considered Pre-Owned.  

We generally can not know the history of a Pre-Owned item except that it is not new.  Our grading of these items is based on our experience in selling, handling, and repairing model trains for over 30 years.

We make every effort to provide a realistic grading of a pre-owned item.  Occasionally we miss something that can affect the grade.

Email me at sales@sbs4dcc.com if you feel there is a significant issue with the grading of an item.

C-10 Mint - Brand New: All original, unused and unblemished.

C-9 Factory New - Brand New: all original, unused, may evidence factory rubs and the slightest evidence of handling, shipping and having been test run at the factory.

C-8 Like New: Complete all original. No rust, no missing parts, may show effects of being on display and/or age, may have been run.

C-7 Excellent: All original minute scratches and paint nicks, no rust and no missing parts. No distortion of component parts.

C-6 Very Good: Minor scratches and paint nicks, minor spots of surface rust, free of dents. May have minor parts replaced.

C-5 Good: Sign of play wear with scratches and minor paint loss. Small dents, minor surface rust. Evidence of heavy use.

C-4 Fair: Scratched. Moderate paint loss, dented missing parts, surface rust. Evidence of heavy use.

C-3 Poor: Requires major body repair. Heavily scratched, major rust and missing parts. Restoration candidate.

C-2 Restoration required: Restoration required.

C-1 Junk, parts value only: Junk, parts value only