Märklin HO 37964 - Royal Bavarian Gt 2x4/4 Mallet Heavy Freight Locomotive Product Description Märklin Article No. 37964 - Royal Bavarian State Railways (K.Bay.Sts.B.) Class Gt 2x4/4 heavy freight locomotive No. 5752 in distinctive green livery. Era I (1890-1920). This extraordinary H0 scale (1:87) model represents one of the most fascinating articulated steam locomotives in European railway history—a true Mallet compound design with both high-pressure and low-pressure cylinders. Special Edition: One-time production series commemorating the 200th Anniversary of the Kingdom of Bavaria (1805-2005). Technical Features • MFX digital decoder with controlled high-efficiency propulsion motor • Comprehensive sound generator with multiple authentic steam locomotive functions • 4 axles powered with 6 traction tires for exceptional pulling power • Articulated chassis design - authentic Mallet configuration with pivoting front frame for negotiating sharp curves • True compound steam system representation with high-pressure (rear) and low-pressure (front) cylinders of different sizes • Digitally controlled headlights - operational in both conventional and digital modes • Digital sound functions include: o Steam locomotive operating sounds o Authentic whistle (2 variations) o Coal shoveling sounds o Air pump/compressor o Acceleration and braking delay control • Numerous separately applied detail parts including handrails, piping, and valve gear • Metal construction for authentic weight and durability • Length over buffers: 20.3 cm (8") • Power: AC 3-rail (Märklin system) • Era: I (1890-1920) • Road number: 5752 • Special packaging: Decorative wooden display case Why This Is a Desirable Collectible The Märklin 37964 stands out as an exceptional collector's piece for several compelling reasons: 1. Limited One-Time Production - Manufactured exclusively in 2005 as a commemorative edition and discontinued in 2008, making this increasingly rare in the secondary market 2. Authentic Mallet Design - One of the few European H0 models representing a true compound articulated locomotive with operational pivoting front frame 3. Historical Significance - Celebrates the 200th anniversary of the Kingdom of Bavaria and represents the Royal Bavarian State Railways' engineering prowess 4. Unique Prototype - The Bavarian Gt 2x4/4 class represents rare European articulated steam technology, with only 31 units built by J.A. Maffei between 1899-1913 5. Premium Presentation - Includes elegant wooden display case, elevating this beyond standard packaging 6. Manufacturing Period - Produced during 2000-2008, featuring Märklin's advanced MFX digital decoder technology with comprehensive sound capabilities 7. Operational Excellence - Articulated design and multiple powered axles provide smooth operation on curved track and exceptional hauling capacity for heavy freight consists 8. Collector Appeal - Bavarian steam locomotives are among the most sought-after prototypes among European model railway enthusiasts Historical Context The prototype Gt 2x4/4 class was designed specifically for Bavaria's challenging local railway lines with steep grades (up to 1:40) and sharp curves (180-meter radius). These 0-8-8-0 Mallet tank locomotives featured four-cylinder compound propulsion with the rear high-pressure cylinders fixed to the main frame and front low-pressure cylinders mounted on the articulated bogie—a sophisticated engineering solution for mountain railway operations. ________________________________________ Item Condition & Terms This locomotive has been carefully preserved in private collection storage since original purchase. The item was tested upon acquisition and again prior to this listing to confirm operational functionality. Comes complete with original factory wooden display box and packaging materials, which show age-appropriate wear. The locomotive itself remains in as-new, unused condition and has never been operated on a layout. Please review all photographs carefully - only items visible in the images are included in this sale. Shipping: Courier service only for reliable, tracked delivery. International Buyers: Please note that the seller does not ship to the USA due to unpredictable customs clearance procedures. Bidders requiring USA delivery should not place bids. Listing Transparency: This product description was compiled with AI assistance. As this item is no longer in production, the seller has relied significantly on AI-assisted research to provide accurate specifications and historical context. The seller is committed to transparency and accuracy, and encourages prospective bidders to independently validate all information before bidding.