New Zealand - Steam Locomotives 2 of 3 - Class F (Silver)

New Zealand - Steam  Locomotives 2 of 3 - Class F (Silver)

New Zealand Designed
Class 'F'
1872
Steam Locomotive

NEW ZEALAND STEAM LOCOMOTIVES No. 2.

Medallion Designed and Circulated by:— WAIKATO MINT (Medallion Division of Hawkins Enterprises)

The 'AB' class steam locomotive was one of the most versatile used in N.Z. It was introduced in 1915, designed to the requirements of H. H. Jackson by S. F. Jenkinson, and built by N.Z. Railways, A. and G. Price and North British. In their prime the 'AB' engines handled all principal express services and were rated to haul 750 tons. The 'AB' was a remarkable engine for its small size. It is believed to be the first engine in the world capable of developing one horsepower for every 100lb of weigh'. Class 'F.' The steam locomotive that has often been referred to as the history of N.Z. Railways — a most beautiful engine — one of the finest examples of locomotive design the world has ever seen. An engine capable of over 40 m.p.h. and could climb like a cat on 1-50 grades. This loco was designed by two public works engineers, J. Blackett and W. Blair in 1871. More than 88 locos were built by British firms. They served on almost every section of the N.Z. Railways. Limited striking of gold (20), silver (480) and unspecified copper and aluminium.