I can't settle on just one but I have narrowed it down to the following years, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1957 and 1958. They all provided magnificent art work which tantalized a model train enthusiast's imagination. 1957 was a milestone because it introduced Super O track and the great Norfolk and Western Class J 4-8-4 Northern. 1958 introduced the space and military lines and included another great spread on the N&W Class J. I think the catalogs in the early 1950s introduced a new high in their backdrop artwork. That cleverly designed scenery brought the trains to life because it depicted them in such enticing scenery. Sorry I couldn't settle on just one but I love those catalogs.
I know this topic covers only Lionel catalogs but I have to throw in an American Flyer catalog into the mix. The 1950 AF catalog wins hands down in my opinion for AF catalogs. The excitement on the kid's faces as they race down the basement steps to view a beautifully detailed AF layout is what memories are made of.
