Collector Series Releases 1978-1985

Lionel's 1978 catalog features three trains illustrated as sets, but sold individually. These Steam Driven Passenger Trains of '78, along with the Mickey Mouse Express of the same year are very much the beginning of Lionel's Collector Series. By official name the Collector Series would not exist until 1980. The Blue Comet is a famous name in the world of Lionel and it was among the first of the specialty sets offered beginning in 1978. The 1978 Lionel catalog introduces the MPC-General Mills Era Blue Comet collection. The engine is a 4-6-4 with electronic steam sound, Magne-traction and puffing smoke. Five heavyweight passenger cars made up the Blue Comet train: Baggage Car, Combo, two Passenger Cars and an Obsveration. Unlike many Lionel releases, The Blue Comet enjoys a long run in the line. You'll find The Blue Comet listed in Lionel's 1979 catalog and again in 1980 officially labeled in the Collector Series.