As much as I dislike the UP, I went ahead and got the N Scale Sunset Ltd brass 4 car M10000 set. Ugly as sin, but for whatever reason, I like it! Maybe because of its uniqueness. Have not figured that it yet! But, I have a question regarding the train. I know the original was a 3 car train. When was the 4th car added? Or was there ever a 4th car added? Photos I've seen, in one book I have, shows 3 cars. And shows an M10001 with 6 cars. Just wondering if the set I have is accurate for some time frame. And if it is, what time frame does it fit? Any information appreciated. Thanks.
A quick Google search found me the information I was looking for. As built and delivered in Feb 1933, the M10000 was a 3 car train. Toured the US during that year, covering some 13,000 miles!! A 4th car, a Pullman, was added in 1934. The train remained that way, from 1934, until it was scrapped in 1940. To provide aluminum for the war effort. During its tour, a stamped aluminum coin was handed out, made from the same material as the train. Thought I had one in my collection, but I do not.
From the PBS website: Averell Harriman wanted the M-10,000 to be seen. At its February debut, Union Pacific issued a souvenir coin made from the same aluminum used on the trains exterior. The last, and best statement made in the article: "They don't really run this Union pacific train," one awestruck observer of the M-10,000 said. "They just aim and fire it."
I have the exact same set as you and wondering how much you bought it for? 20 sites I looked at had that train for $1000 buddy. Save it for a while, keep it in good shape and then sell it. You go search, you will agree with me
I've seen it run from $750 to maybe $1,200. Guess I got a steal on my set for $325 plus postage through eBay! Want to figure out how together inside the thing, so I can install a DCC decoder eventually.
