You are looking at a vintage Lionel transformer from around 100 years ago!! It has been tested for voltage on all contacts, and it is performing as it should. Note that these very early transformers require a rheostatt (such as the number 81 or 95) to be able to smoothly control variable voltage.
Maybe you need this to put it with that prewar set to make it COMPLETE!
Lionel produced this transformer in various versions from 1916-1938. This one could be among the earliest (books call it first version). I believe this one is from no later than 1921:
- It is 50 watts (vs. 75)
- The plate is brass (vs. nickle), putting it probably earlier in the "late" range, ie. 1921
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Plate is on the SIDE (vs. on the top)
- It is 25 volts
These earlier transformers are great because there are SO many voltage combinations possible, all the way up to 25 volts, which you need to push your Standard Gauge and many larger O gauge. For contrast, many postwar transformers top out at 15-18 volts.
CONDITION: C-6 Very good close to full excellent. Tested and works on all channels. Brass faceplate on side shows a few scratches but is very strong. The only thing keeping it from full excellent is the fading of the print on the top. Cord appears to be original. Pictures show it all!