Preliminary identification

Electro-Motive Corporation Locomotive Control Station Plate, c. 1935-1941

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This is an authentic brass identification plate from a 'Control Station' manufactured by the Electro-Motive Corporation (EMC).

Story

In 1935, the Electro-Motive Corporation opened its landmark factory in La Grange, Illinois, a move that signaled the beginning of the end for the steam locomotive.

Maker / Origin

Founded in 1922, the Electro-Motive Corporation (EMC) was the visionary force behind the diesel-electric revolution.

Condition & Value

The plate shows significant 'honest wear,' including heavy surface scratching and oxidation consistent with decades of industrial use. The mounting holes are intact, and all text remains legible despite the heavy patina.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Build on this identification

Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.

Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD