Step back into the golden age of tinplate railroading with this authentic Lionel #068 Railroad Crossing Warning Signal, manufactured between 1925 and 1942. Produced during Lionel’s prewar era, this accessory brought a sense of realism and American railroad culture to home layouts, reminding hobbyists and children alike of the iconic signs that dotted U.S. highways and rural crossings.
🔹 History of the #068 Crossing Signal
First cataloged in 1925, the Lionel #068 was part of Lionel’s effort to expand beyond locomotives and cars into layout details and realism.
The design, featuring the raised “LOOK OUT FOR LOCOMOTIVE” warning, is modeled after real crossing signs common in the early 20th century, before the adoption of the standardized “crossbuck” in the 1940s.
Made of stamped steel with a painted green lattice post and metal base, this sign has the rugged, hand-crafted look of Lionel’s prewar accessories.
Discontinued after World War II as materials and production shifted, the #068 today stands as one of Lionel’s most recognizable early accessories, prized by collectors of both O gauge and prewar tinplate.
🔹 Why This Piece Is Special
Authenticity: Produced in Lionel’s Irvington, New Jersey factory during the company’s rise as America’s premier model train maker.
Cultural Snapshot: Captures a period of American railroading when safety signs were blunt and direct — this wasn’t just “railroad crossing,” it was a commanding reminder of the dangers of the iron horse.
Collector Appeal: Highly desirable for prewar Lionel layouts and as a standalone display piece, bridging the gap between toy and historical artifact.
🔹 Condition Report
Lettering remains bold and readable: “LOOK OUT FOR LOCOMOTIVE”.
Original green painted base and lattice post show natural vintage wear and patina.
Metal is structurally sound with no breaks or repairs.
Displays beautifully with authentic character consistent with its nearly 100-year-old history.
🔹 Collector & Display Value
The Lionel #068 is not just an accessory — it is a symbol of the prewar Lionel aesthetic: bold, functional, and true to the railroad spirit of the 1920s–40s. For collectors, it adds historical depth and authenticity to any prewar O gauge setup, whether paired with classic tinplate locomotives, passenger stations, or freight yards.
Its cross-category appeal makes it sought after by:
Lionel collectors building authentic prewar layouts.
Railroadiana enthusiasts fascinated by vintage safety signage.
Historical Americana collectors seeking artifacts of industrial design.
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Lionel #068 Railroad Crossing Signal, Prewar Lionel Accessories, 1920s Lionel Train Parts, Vintage O Gauge Crossing Sign, Cast Metal Train Layout Accessory, Lionel Tinplate Warning Sign, 1930s Railroadiana Collectible, Prewar O Gauge Signal, Lionel Prewar 068, Vintage Toy Train Accessory
In short: This is more than a toy train accessory — it is a nearly century-old artifact of Lionel’s prewar glory, a miniature echo of America’s railroading history, and a must-have for the serious collector.
👉 Don’t miss your chance to add this authentic 1925–42 Lionel #068 “Look Out for Locomotive” crossing sign to your collection.
This vintage Lionel #068 O scale warning signal is a must-have for any model railroad enthusiast. Made of pressed steel and brass, it features a vibrant green color that will complement any layout. The signal is in excellent working order, with a grade of C-7, and is ready to go straight out of the box.
Measuring 6.5 inches in height, this signal is perfect for warning train drivers of any upcoming obstacles or hazards. Its historical design, manufactured in 1925, adds an extra touch of authenticity to any collection. This item is suitable for ages 17 and up and is a great addition to any railroad or toy collection.
1925-42 VINTAGE LIONEL #068 O SCALE WARNING SIGNAL EXCELLENT CONDITION
SKU#104082
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