The 1930 Lionel catalog trumpeted the release of the firm's very first O gauge steam engine: "Boys - here is the most remarkable "O" Gauge Steam Type Locomotive that has ever been produced. Dozens of blue prints and photographs of famous new locomotives from railroads all over the country were examined, and the best features of each were utilized by Lionel's Engineering Department in designing this locomotive. It is built for speed and power. It is low, long, graceful and sturdy. Complete with its Pacific type oil-burning tender, it represents a miracle of model railroad engineering.

"The rhythm of its double action pistons and driving rods is characteristic of a great "Mogul of the Rails." It will be the pride of every boy who owns one."

While its gleaming exterior is pure 1930s, the Proto-Sound version of our 260E runs smoother than any original tinplate locomotive, delivers huge plumes of puffing smoke, and features a clanging bell, wailing whistle, and "Latch-Type" Proto-CouplerTM that can be remotely activated by the transformer to uncouple from its trailing cars. Pair this engine with a set of 2600 Series passenger cars or 2800 Series freight cars to experience the best of both the 1930s and the 21st Century.