The Lionel Prewar Standard Gauge Tin Toy Train 219 Crane Car from a 400E set is a highly collectible and historically significant piece from Lionel’s early train production era, primarily the 1920s and 1930s. Below is a detailed description. Era: Prewar (produced between 1926 and 1942). Gauge: Standard Gauge (2 1/8 inches between rails). Material: Tinplate with hand-painted and lithographed details. Set Association: Often found as part of the 400E set, which was a large, high-end locomotive and rolling stock series. 219 Crane Car Description. The 219 Crane Car is a work-duty accessory car designed to resemble a real-life railroad crane used for maintenance and heavy lifting tasks. Construction: Made of stamped steel/tinplate. Color Variants: Typically found in gray, red, peacock blue, or yellow cab variations. Boom & Hook: Features a black metal crane boom that extends and swivels, allowing for realistic lifting operations. Functionality: Operates with hand cranks that raise, lower, and swing the boom. Base: Mounted on a standard four-wheel truck assembly for compatibility with other Standard Gauge rolling stock. Stamped “219” on the sides. The Lionel logo is usually printed or embossed on the frame. Handrails and detailing are often made of brass or nickel-plated metal. Designed to be pulled by powerful Standard Gauge locomotives, particularly the 400E steam locomotive, which was one of Lionel’s most impressive prewar engines. Compatible with other Standard Gauge cars like the 214 Boxcar, 216 Hopper, and 217 Caboose. Considered highly desirable among collectors due to its vintage appeal, detailed craftsmanship, and connection to the legendary 400E set. Value depends on condition (original paint, intact decals, functional crane mechanisms, minimal rust or wear) and rarity of color variations. Restored models exist, but original, untouched examples are more valuable. Lionel’s prewar Standard Gauge trains were known for their large size, sturdy metal construction, and detailed craftsmanship, making them some of the most sought-after toy trains of all time. The 219 Crane Car represents the industrial and maintenance side of railroading, adding realism and interactive play features to train sets.
