This photo clearly shows the reason the D&RGW caboose numbers stood out so well: they were cast metal, rather than painted or a vinyl decal. The practice probably has its roots in Denver & Salt Lake (predecessor to D&RGW) practices of the same for locomotives. The D&SL's steam locomotives in the 100-400 classes all were modified with raised, cast cab numerals after construction. The grimy tunnel service they were in and lack of regular washing necessitated being able to identify an engine number easily.
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