$1.00 for 1.1 lb Bag of black sand in the craft aisle.
Picture for size of coal only. Bag is larger.
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Good lead. I found some black aquarium gravel at My Fish place that was exactly the same size as Lionel coal. Purchased like a 5 lb bag for $2.99.
For ballast I use crushed gravel (sold as chicken grit), toss some dark gray latex paint in it (if needed) , stir thoroughly and put it near a heat duct register to dry for a few days. You can buy it at Tractor Supply and its economical.
Good find.
Be careful with chicken or bird grit. I used one years ago and it had a high salt content. It combined with high humidity rusted out anything it was in contact with.
For ballast I use crushed gravel (sold as chicken grit),...
