The 0-6-2T Southern 2594 locomotive had been estimated at £400-600 but made £6000 in the November 28 Toys, Models and Collectables Sale in Leyburn.
The fact that it was a clockwork model was significant. Meccano introduced its 00 scale trains in 1938 under the brand Hornby Dublo. Wartime hit production and development, and clockwork versions were discontinued afterwards. Post-war versions – the ones usually offered on the market – ran on a third-rail electric system.
The Southern livery also helped. Tennants’ toys, models and collectables specialist Kegan Harrison said: “Southern Railway is always a very sought-after category by locomotive collectors and this, together with the excellent condition of train, attracted three determined bidders who battled it out to win this prized example.”
Despite not having its original box, the loco was sold with Southern Railway open and goods wagons, a brake van, and original wrap and clockwork key.
Hornby Dublo locomotives were made of diecast metal, and the carriages and wagons were generally made of tinplate.
