Deutsche Bundesbahn

Deutsche Bundesbahn was the West German federal railway from 1949 until German reunification. Operating in the Federal Republic of Germany, the DB oversaw the dramatic transformation from steam to modern traction.

The DB was known for its TEE (Trans Europ Express) services connecting major European cities, operating distinctive diesel and electric trainsets in cream and red livery. The company developed famous locomotive classes including the electric BR 103 and diesel BR 218.

The classic DB livery featured blue and cream for coaches, with green and later red for electric locomotives. The era from the 1960s through 1980s is particularly popular with modelers.

Deutsche Bundesbahn is extremely well-served by German manufacturers, with Märklin, Fleischmann, and Roco offering comprehensive ranges covering all eras.