Collecting memorabilia related to railroads is a very popular hobby today.
People enjoy the romance of rail travel and all that is associated with it.
Even though many enthusiasts have probably enjoyed the thrill of riding the rails, many people today have never set foot on a train.
There are many types of railroad memorabilia that are focused on by collectors.
Some people have a general interest in railroads and collect everything from scale model trains up to full size railroad signs.
Others keep their focus more on one particular thing.
One very popular collectible is the railroad lantern.
Although these are purchased by collectors to be ornamental in most cases, these old lights were built to be used by railroad workers as they performed their duties.
Many lanterns consist of a protective outer frame that looks something like a cage which protects an inner glass globe.
Inside the globe a flame was lit to provide light.
This is an important distinction for collectors, as lanterns and lamps are actually different things and the lack of lenses and a flame fueled by some type of combustible are a couple of the distinguishing characteristics of railroad lanterns.
There are different styles of lanterns available and their worth depends on a number of factors.
Of course how common the lantern is must be taken into account.
Some types of short globe lanterns were used up until the 1960s and 1970s.
They can still be found without much trouble.
They are not worth nearly as much as older fixed globe lanterns that were used in the 1800s.
Even among lanterns that are similar in style, there are differences that can increase or decrease values.
Glass globes were made in different colors to send different signals.
The more rare the color of the globe, the more valuable it will be to a collector.
There are many subtle differences in railroad lanterns that can affect their collectible value.
If you own one, it would be wise to get it appraised.
If you are thinking about purchasing one as an addition to your decor, learn as much as you can about the specific style of lantern you are considering purchasing.