Standards
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A hallmark of TCA membership is the observance of ethical and fair practices when engaged in determining and representing the condition of toy train items offered for sale or trade. Such is helpful to persons considering a transaction, and reflects the principles of the Association’s earliest and current leaders.
Several sets of standards have been promulgated, together with guides for their implementation:
- Grading Restorations and Refinished Items
Detailed presentation. (Large PDF, allow download time.)
- A guide to using the paper and box grading standards
An informative guide to the application of paper and box standards, with illustrations. (Large PDF, allow download time.)
- Pre-war Trains and Accessories Grading Standards
Another informative guide. (Large PDF, allow download time.)
- Post-war Trains and Accessories Grading Standards
Extensive guide. (Large PDF, allow download time.)
These standards are monitored and enforced by the TCA on its members in their dealings, but not on non-member merchants. Standards Committee Members are present at most TCA functions to enforce the rules and regulations pertaining to the proper identification of toy train restorations, reproductions and related items. A large part of a Committee Member’s responsibilities includes instructing the general membership on how to recognize fake and reproduction items.
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