These No.2 locomotives, more true to life and more powerful than any previous Hornby models, were available from 1929 - this one in LNER livery likely dated from early/mid 1931 - and made in both clockwork and electric versions.
Bonhams' clockwork model, incorporating the coaches Lolanthe and Arcadia, was quite exceptional: not just mint and boxed but also retaining original wrappers, supporting literature and a 'tested and guaranteed' label. The only imperfection was a broken scoop handle to the tender and some scuffs to the box, but really this is as good as it gets. Estimated at £800-1600, it sold at £3100.
This general sale of art and antiques also included a Hornby O-gauge No.2 Signal Gantry, again c.1930, and also surviving in excellent condition in its original (if torn) box. It sold at £980.
Condition is nine-tenths of the law
CONDITION is nine-tenths of the law in toy collecting and that explains the remarkable level of interest in this No.2 Special Pullman train set, pictured right, which turned up at Bonhams Edinburgh (17.5% buyer premium) on March 25.