The N Scale Collector is the premier N scale organization in my book. An independent, not for profit corporation sponsored in part by Micro Trains, they offer many member benefits. You can read about these on the NSC web site, but I thought I'd point out the benefits as I appreciate them.

Primarily, I like the inclusion of a free membership car. Non-members purchase these on eBay day after day, most often in the $25 to $35 range.

If you've ever purchased one of these, you've helped a member pay for his membership, whereas by being a member, it would be FREE. If you want to keep the car, you can figure that the membership was at least rebated $25.

Then there is the annual Members Only car. Examples are Washington DC, Puerto Rico, Guam, Virgin Islands, and this year's offering - American Samoa.

These cost members about $37.50 delivered. If you want one off eBay, be prepared to pay between $50 to $100, or be prepared to sell yours in that price range.

These two perks pretty much take care of any arguments about the annual membership cost of $40. I consider my membership to be free.

That leaves the other membership perks as additional incentives to become a member. Some will enjoy the annual summer convention that rotates around the country, making that event a possibility for almost every one at some point in time. There are many Special NSC Releases every year available at discount to members, Member Auction where you can buy or sell guaranteed collector quality cars, and lest I forget - a quality bi-monthly member's magazine that keeps you up-to-date on the latest manufacturers' releases in N, Nn3, and Z scale.

If you have something to add to the membership, you are encouraged to offer your input. If you should be talented enough to actually present an article that gets published, you will receive a very limited edition of what's known as an "Author's" car. These are definitely rare!

Once you become a member, you can earn a $5 "Bounty" for new members that you might "Capture". If you are not a member already, I would appreciate you entering my membership number in the spot that asks for referring member's number. If you do, and after I receive my coupon with your name on it, I will allow you a $5 discount on your next purchase. This is the link www.nscalecollector.com/NSC_Membership_New.asp, and my membership number is 3999.

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