Lionel 1946 No. 726 Berkshire 2-8-4 w/ 2426W Tender

This is the top of the line in Lionel Berkshires. This is the harder-to-find 1946 Lionel No. 726 steam engine, and its No. 2426W Tender.  Lionel placed the most detail and best running gear on this engine. Instead of cotter pins as used in the following years, Lionel used stanchions to hold the handrails on the engine. Instead of having the motor drive the rear axle and using the main rod to drive the rest of the axles, Lionel placed the motor horizontally and used a drive shaft to drive the front and rear axles. Plus of course no e-unit slot through the top of the boiler, and a heat bulb upfront for smoke.

The engine and tender are in very good condition - as seen in the pictures.  I think the pictures speak for themselves, but I will detail what I see. After close observation I believe that the engine was repainted. The engine overall is very nice. Some minor wear on some of the high areas and sides. Importantly, the engine lights up underneath and in the front, and it runs in forward and reverse when tested. Smoke bulb works. The 2426W Tender is the correct rubber stamped version, unwrapped couplers. Some wear to the sides. Whistle worked when tested. Overall, a very nice set. Please look at all the photographs and ask any questions. Thanks. 

Price: $375 SORRY! SOLD!