4: RARE CAR SIGN FROM FIAT ROCK ISLAND ''RAVIOLI'' ROCKET

The rare painted tin sign documenting a short-lived experiment where the Italian automobile manufacturer Fiat attempted to get in the railroad car business with the development of a self-propelled railroad car. The cars ran for a time in the late 1970s on the Rock Island and the Milwaukee Road. This sign bears includes reference to the R.T.A. which later became the Metra in Chicago.

The following can be found online:.

According to David Daruszka on Flickr, 'this was an experiment by the Rock Island to cut costs using diesel railcars.' He believes it was intended for shuttle service on the Beverly Branch. Apparently, the track had deteriorated so badly that the ride it gave was less than adequate and was dubbed the 'Ravioli Rocket.'

See the image within this listing of the car in service, also posted online.
Measures 12.5 x 27.5 inches.
Good condition with minor scattered stain and soiling.
$500 - $1,000