VINELAND, N.J. -- There were smiles on many bidders' faces as they departed Bertoia Auctions' May 9-10 Spring Toy Break Auction. "It was a terrific sale, and there was a great camaraderie throughout," said Bertoia Auctions associate Rich Bertoia. "As they headed out the door with their purchases, everybody was chattering about the toys and the prices they had sold for."

The offered lots included trains and trolleys, horse-drawn and bell toys, and many high-end European, automotive and early American toys. When the last gavel fell, the tally totaled $1.95 million (all prices quoted include 18 percent buyer's premium).

The train category roared, with a circa 1904-1908 Carlisle & Finch No. 45 locomotive with tender and passenger cars set claiming top-lot status at $46,020. A boxed freight set by the same revered American manufacturer achieved $23,600. Fans of European trains joined the fray, competing with conviction over...