Niagara Type Locomotive Appraisal

Alvin Staufer New York Central Niagara-Type Locomotive Lithograph

This item is a vintage black and white lithographic print of the New York Central 'Niagara' Type Passenger Locomotive, Class S-1b, specifically engine number 6012. Produced by renowned railroad illustrator Alvin F. Staufer and copyrighted in 1961, the piece features a highly detailed profile rendering of the steam locomotive. The print includes technical specifications printed below the image, such as cylinder size, boiler pressure, and weight particulars, noting it was built by the American Locomotive Co. in 1946. The artwork is presented in a horizontal rectangular format, housed in a thin black gallery-style frame with clear glazing. The paper appears to be an off-white or cream-colored heavy stock consistent with mid-century mass-market prints. Notable characteristics include the crisp architectural line work and smooth tonal shading that highlights the industrial design of the engine. The overall condition appears excellent with no visible foxing, water damage, or significant yellowing of the paper. The frame is simple and functional, showing minimal wear on the edges. Al Staufer's work is highly regarded by rail enthusiasts for its technical accuracy and serves as a classic example of mid-20th-century railroad art and historical documentation.