The Banjo Signal No. 140 would move the arm "STOP" sign back and forth across the RED L53R light as a train passed by. This was accomplished with the use of a vibrating drum that rotated when current was applied from accessory voltage and this was activated from the weight of the train going over a No. 145C Contact that was placed beneath the track. This signal was available from 1954 until 1966.

For improved operation it is essential that the drum and the the neoprene pronged washer on the vibrating coil be clean and free of dust and oil. We recommend using a variable voltage source for optimum performance.

Lionel housed this signal in a variety of different boxes over the years of production. This included a blister pack that was numbered B140 that was issued in 1966 which was the last year that this signal was produced.

Two different instruction sheets were issued under the No. 140-59 and both are dated 8-54.

The first used BRIGHT BLUE ink and the second used BLACK ink. Both were printed on WHITE paper. Below we’ve illustrated the front page of the BRIGHT BLUE ink printed sheet.

There are three variations:

Variation A: Has a BLACK painted finish.

Variation B: The base of the signal has a crackled BLACK painted finish.

Variation C: Housed in a a blister pack that is numbered B140. The value of this variation is based on the condition of the original packaging. Because this packaging had to be compromised to remove the signal, it is extremely hard to find today intact. Pristine quality of this packaging can command a substantial premium today. Produced in 1966. A picture of this variation is shown below.

An identical Banjo Signal was produced in 1970-84 by MPC (No. 2140), so collectors should check the bottom of this signal to see if it has the following inscription:

"PART NO. 140-50 / NO. 140 BANJO SIGNAL / MADE IN U.S. OF AMERICA / THE LIONEL CORPORATION / NEW YORK"

Dimensions: 7-3/4 inches high on a 3" x 1-3/4" base