LIONEL L9711-L9717 Cats Meow Virginian Train Set

( Brand: Lionel ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: L9711-L9717 ), ( Part Type: Train ), ( Material: Wood )

Review LIONEL The Cats Meow Village Inch Virginian Piece Train Set

The **Lionel L9711 L9717 Cats Meow Virginian Train Set** is a charming and nostalgic addition to any model train enthusiast s collection, blending vintage charm with playful whimsy. This delightful 3-rail (G) scale train set captures the essence of Lionel s classic craftsmanship while introducing a touch of feline mischief with its signature "Cats Meow" theme. At the heart of the set is a meticulously detailed **Virginian Limited** passenger train, complete with a **streamlined silver locomotive** (L9711) that exudes mid-20th-century elegance, complete with polished metal details, realistic headlights, and a dynamic motion system that brings the train to life. The locomotive is paired with a **matching silver passenger car** (L9717), adorned with vintage-style windows and a crisp, clean exterior that evokes the golden age of rail travel. For added fun and interactivity, the set includes a **whimsical "Cats Meow" cat-themed accessory car** (L9716), featuring playful black-and-white felines perched on the roof, meowing as the train moves a delightful nod to Lionel s beloved animated features. The set also comes with a **wooden station** (L9712) and a **scenic landscape** (L9713 L9715), including lush greenery, a winding track, and a charming bridge, all designed to create an immersive miniature world. The track itself is crafted from durable, easy-to-assemble 3-rail G gauge components, allowing for smooth operation and effortless expansion. Whether displayed as a standalone exhibit or integrated into a larger layout, this train set offers a perfect blend of vintage charm, mechanical precision, and playful charm, making it an ideal gift for collectors, hobbyists, and anyone who appreciates the timeless allure of Lionel s iconic trains.

### Pros and Cons of buying a Lionel L9711-L9717 Cats Meow Virginian Train Set

1. **Authentic and Detailed Design** The set features a well-crafted, historically inspired Virginian Railway locomotive and cars, with attention to period-accurate details like lettering, couplings, and paint schemes. The locomotive includes a working bell and headlight, enhancing realism.

2. **Functional Sound Effects** The "Cats Meow" feature provides realistic engine sounds, including a chuffing locomotive and car movements, which adds immersion for train enthusiasts and younger collectors.

3. **Collectible and Vintage Appeal** As part of Lionel s classic line, this set holds value for collectors, especially those interested in mid-century train models. The Virginian Railway theme is nostalgic and appealing to fans of American rail history.

4. **Durable Construction** Lionel models are known for their sturdy metal bodies and reliable mechanisms, making this set a long-lasting addition to a collection.

5. **Compatibility with Other Lionel Sets** The track gauge and coupling system are compatible with other Lionel models, allowing for expansion with additional locomotives, cars, or track layouts.

6. **Educational Value** For younger children, the set can introduce basic concepts of trains, railroads, and mechanics in a hands-on way.

7. **Resale Value** Well-maintained Lionel sets, especially those from the 1970s, can appreciate over time, making them a potential investment for serious collectors.

---

1. **Age and Wear** Being from the 1970s, the set may show signs of age, such as worn paint, rust, or mechanical wear if not well-preserved. Some components might require cleaning or lubrication to function smoothly.

2. **Maintenance Requirements** Older Lionel models can be more finicky than modern electric trains. The motor and gears may need occasional cleaning or adjustment to avoid stalling or uneven movement.

3. **Limited Modern Features** Unlike newer Lionel sets, this model lacks advanced features such as DCC (Digital Command Control) compatibility, sound expansion, or smart technology integration.

4. **Track Compatibility Issues** The set is designed for use with Lionel s specific track system. While it can work with other brands, some compatibility issues (e.g., track gauge or power supply differences) may arise.

5. **Space and Storage Needs** The set includes a locomotive, two cars, and track pieces, requiring dedicated space for display or play. Storage may be a concern for those with limited room.

6. **Potential for Counterfeit or Replica Models** Due to its popularity, there are counterfeit versions of this set available, which may lack quality or authenticity. Buyers should verify the authenticity of the item, especially when purchasing from third-party sellers.

7. **Cost of Restoration** If the set is in poor condition, restoring it to full functionality may require time, effort, and additional expenses for parts or tools.

8. **Not Ideal for Young Children Without Supervision** While the sound effects are engaging, the small parts (e.g., couplings, track pieces) pose a choking hazard for very young children, requiring adult supervision.

---

The Lionel L9711-L9717 Cats Meow Virginian Train Set is a fantastic choice for collectors, train enthusiasts, and those seeking a nostalgic, functional model. Its detailed design, realistic sound effects, and historical significance make it a standout piece for display or play. However, potential buyers should be prepared for the challenges of maintaining an older model, including occasional mechanical adjustments and the need for careful handling.

For **collectors or adults with experience in model trains**, this set is highly recommended for its authenticity, durability, and collectible value. For **families with young children**, it offers a fun, educational toy but requires supervision due to small parts. Those with limited space or a preference for modern, low-maintenance models may find it less suitable.

Ultimately, if you appreciate vintage Lionel models and are willing to invest time in upkeep, this Virginian train set is a rewarding purchase that combines nostalgia, craftsmanship, and play value.

Details:

Item numbers L9711-L9717.

part #: l9711l9717 prices

• $5.00-$29.99

specifications otmodeltrain:

• brand: Lionel
• mpn: L9711-l9717
• part type: Train
• material: Wood

shipping ot model train:

• class: Standard
• service: USPS Ground Advantage
• carrier: USPS
• cost: $0.00
• transit: 5-12 Days
• type: Calculated

general ot model train:

• condition: Used
• model Railroads Trains > Railroads Trains > Other Railroads Trains

offer ot model train:

• quantity: 1
• sold: 0
• started: February 27, 2026
• options: Ship-to-home
• availability: In Stock

payments ot model train:

• other
• wallet: Google-pay
• credit card: Visa

seller ot model train:

• # reviews: 1967
• city: Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
• rating: 100.0%

returns ot model train:

• policy: No Returns

Lionel L9711-L9717 Is Similar To:

• 023922910028 Lionel New Box Trains Chessie System Series Train (27.7% similar) They are sold as found is. Pictures are the primary part of , so review carefully. They are considered the primary of this items condition. Please look over the pictures carefully and judge condition for yourself. Items may show normal use wear, and require cleaning. Lionel trains chess system GP9 ...(March 10th, 2018)
• 023922910110 Lionel Train Trains Big Rugged Series Southern Pacific (22.5% similar) Box shows wear as shown in the pictures. Ships out within 24HRS sun-Fri. Hard to find Lionel locomotive in a decorative tin. Still sealed...(February 9th, 2019)
• 1000019777 Lionel Burlington Gondola Toy Train (31.4% similar) The majority of our items are used and have been donated...(March 9th, 2017)
• Knife Centennial Train Anniversary 100th Collector Lionel (27.3% similar) From an estate. Would make a really neat Christmas for any Lionel train enthusiast...(December 13th, 2014)
• Set 10mint Brand Express Silver Bell Train gauge Remote Lionel (23% similar) Brand new fresh in the box...(December 31st, 2014)
• 11011 Lionel Vintage Gauge Rio Grande Set With Original Box No (33.6% similar) Here is a vintage 027 gauge Lionel Rio grandee set with original box, no transformer. This set includes Alcoa locomotive 222 w light red Leigh valley hopper satellite launching car yellow work caboose 6 straight track 8 curved. See pictures. The box shows some wear, with top unattached. Extremely ...(September 24th, 2018)
• 11222 Lionel Postwar Train Set Steam (32.4% similar) Some items may arrive faster than the estimated arrival date depending on which shipping method I select. I have not tested the trains. I have included multiple pictures of each train car to show condition. Be sure to look at all the pictures. I try to include pictures of multiple angles sides as ...(March 10th, 2017)
• 12212 1931 Lionel Electric Train Toy Game Boy Child Engineer Ad (26.1% similar) Please look at our photo's closely as they are exact scans albeit very low resolution of the product being sold. Adverts are carefully removed from magazine and may be trimmed in preparation for displaying. Of item a great vintage original advertisement for a historical company and or product. Just ...(March 28th, 2016)
• Model Vintage 13539 4660 Hobby Train Transformer Lionel (30.5% similar) Smoke free homeliness transformer hobby free...(January 8th, 2015)
• Postwar Circa Lionel Freight Boxed Set 1951 1481ws (22% similar) Individual obs have most all flaps attached. The set box is complete with all flaps. 1481WS, circa 1951 in individual obs and set box containing black steam loco with original paper wrap and cardboard insert, 6466W tender with original cardboard insert, 3464 NYC operating boxcar, 6462 NYC gondola ...(January 18th, 2015)
• 1900-1955 Lionel Used The Trains Worlds Booklet Finest (31% similar) Items came from a very large estate sale that I purchased it from. On APR at PDT, free...(February 26th, 2015)