- 1930 Ford Model A that John Dillinger used in an escape to be sold at Barrett-Jackson at No Reserve
- The car also starred in the recent blockbuster “Public Enemies” with Johnny Depp
- The Model A (Lot #1309) includes meticulous documentation from the current owner
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Jan. 4, 2010 – The 1930’s Ford Model A (Lot #1309) used by the notorious gangster John Dillinger and later in the blockbuster 2009 movie about his life, will be sold at No Reserve during the 39th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Scottsdale on Jan. 18-24, 2010 at WestWorld. The Ford, which carried “Public Enemy” number one to safety in 1934 while Dillinger sprayed pursing cops with his Tommy gun, will cross the block as the world watches on SPEED.
“While Bonnie and Clyde, Machine Gun Kelly, Pretty Boy Floyd and Baby Face Nelson were media celebrities, none were more famous than John Dillinger,” said Barrett-Jackson Chairman/CEO Craig Jackson. “His daring robberies and hold ups fed the nation’s hunger for sensationalist news. His ability to elude capture and escape by using fast, reliable cars with seeming impunity made him a folk hero.”
Dillinger and his gang raged throughout Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Kentucky, South Dakota, Iowa and Wisconsin during the Great Depression. One of Dillinger’s most memorable escapes took place at the Little Bohemia Lodge in Manitowish Waters, Wis. on April 22, 1934. Dillinger, Homer Van Meter and John “Red” Hamilton, his two top lieutenants, escaped in the 1930 Ford Model A coupe offered at Barrett-Jackson.
“This car is a piece of American gangster history and as much a part of Dillinger’s legend as his Tommy guns and Colt automatics,” stated Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “Not only did this particular car get the famous gangster out of a fix with the cops in hot pursuit, it was used in the recent Johnny Depp movie about Dillinger. So it’s played an important role in history and cinema emulating history.”
After a series of robberies, Dillinger and his gang hid out at the Little Bohemia Lodge in Manitowish Waters. The proprietors, Emil and Nan Wanatka, recognized them and managed to tip off the authorities to the gang’s location.
Upon arrival, the Feds perforated the Lodge with bullets until Dillinger, Van Meter and Hamilton bailed out of doors and windows, rushing through the woods until they found the Model T nearby. The gangsters politely but firmly commandeered the Ford and its owner, Robert Johnson, to drive it.
Johnson was let out near Park Falls, Wis. The trio of crooks eluded law enforcement and drove to Hastings, Minn., over 200 miles away from the Lodge. There, they were once again identified and fled in a high speed pursuit. Hamilton was fatally shot in the hail of gunfire. Dillinger, it is said, smashed the Ford’s rear window with his Thompson and sprayed his pursuers with bullets as he escaped.
Heading for the anonymity of Chicago, they dumped the bullet-riddled Model A in favor of a stolen 1934 Ford V8. Just three months later, Dillinger was killed as he exited the Biograph Theater in Chicago.
Bullet pocked and blood stained, the Ford was impounded by the police. Files from the Division of Investigation (now FBI) identified it as “1930 Ford coupe, 4 cylinder, Model A, Wisconsin license #92652, Motor #2980001.”
“The Model A was eventually returned to Johnson who determined that it wasn’t worth repairing and parked it for nearly three decades,” noted Davis. “The car ended up in the barn of Alfred Love’s mother in-law, where Johnson rented a bungalow. Love bought it from Johnson and eventually passed it to his son, Mark, the current owner.”
The Ford was carefully restored in 2007 to appear in “Public Enemies”, preserving the original bullet holes and dimples under body filler and carefully documenting the original appearance including the upholstery soaked with blood. This car is comprehensively documented with its transfer paperwork, articles, books, before-restoration photographs and a selection of documents copied from the federal files.
“This Ford was at the center of one of the most famous shootouts in gangster history,” added Jackson. “It is, more than any automobile and even firearm, identified with Dillinger. It’s been owned by only two families since it played a crucial role in the Little Bohemia Lodge escape. The Dillinger Ford Model A coupe would be an incredible addition to a collection, museum or attraction that commemorates the history of Ford, the Model A or American history.”
About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company
The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company was established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces the “World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™” in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla., Las Vegas, and Orange County, Cali. Barrett-Jackson also endorses a one-of-a-kind collector car insurance offering for collector vehicles and other valued belongings. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.
Media Contact
Scott Black, TPRM, (214) 520-3430 ext. 303, sblack@tprm-usa.com
Eric Kreller, R&R Partners, 702-318-4384, eric.kreller@rrpartners.com
Monday, January 4, 2010 – SPEED, the definitive network for NASCAR, high-performance competition and the automotive lifestyle, is set for 39 hours of live coverage from the 39th annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction from Westworld in Scottsdale (Ariz.) starting Tuesday, Jan. 19 at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.
The annual ‘no reserve’ auction will anchor six-consecutive broadcast days on SPEED, and will be highlighted by some of the rarest and most desirable collector cars within the marketplace today. This week-long fete has been considered by some in the industry as the defining barometer for the direction of the collector car marketplace each New Year.
“The Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction has long been one of the network’s signature events,” said Rick Miner, SPEED SVP of Production & Network Operations. “As always, Craig (Jackson, Barrett-Jackson Chairman/CEO), Steve (Davis, Barrett-Jackson President) and the entire Barrett-Jackson team have already assembled a wide and impressive array of pristine collector cars. Make sure you see it all live and in high definition exclusively on SPEED.”
As with past auctions, the SPEED Barrett-Jackson team will be anchored through the play-by-play talents of Bob Varsha, ‘Voice of Formula One on SPEED.’ He’ll be joined by Motor Trend Executive Editor Matt Stone, who’s also the author of Winning: The Racing Life of Paul Newman (). Perusing the auction block will be automotive expert and the ‘Voice of NASCAR on FOX,’ Mike Joy, along with Steve Magnante, a successful automotive freelance writer and leading muscle car authority. Arizona resident and car connoisseur Rick DeBruhl will be traveling the auction tents to provide the numerous tidbits and lifestyle stories that accent every Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction. In addition, DeBruhl will also be previewing the many cars that will make up SPEEDtv.com’s interactive Fantasy Bid Game.
“This is an exciting time to be part of the collector car hobby, and we look forward to another successful show with our partners at SPEED,” said Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “Like last year, we’re going to offer cars for every level of collector, from new buyers to seasoned vets. Several high profile vehicles are ready to cross the block, including a pair of original Shelby Cobras, Buddy Holly’s ‘58 Impala and the only airworthy 1929 Hamilton Metalplane H-47 in existence. We’ll also sell the original Ford Model A getaway car used by infamous crook John Dillinger in Wisconsin.”
Among the other cars topping this year’s auction will be the ‘no reserve’ sale of the now famous ‘Gate Job’ Mercury Comet ‘fliptop’ Funny Car (Lot 1306) driven by Pete Gates back in the mid-to-late 60s. The car – a 1966 ‘fliptop’ Comet body mounted on a brand new (at the time) Logghe Chassis – is the oldest known surviving ‘fliptop’ Funny Car still in existence. This car was one of the first five ever built, with the original four given to ‘Dyno’ Don Nicholson, Jack Chrisman, Ed Schartman and the (Bill) Kenz & (Ron) Leslie team. Gates nabbed the leftover body, which he received at the beginning of the 1967 season. The car is now considered ‘The Grandfather of All Funny Cars.’
During that period of automotive history, Detroit auto manufacturers invested a lot of time, money, research and development into the sport of drag and match racing. This car was one of the first five ever built by Lincoln-Mercury, and those cars’ success were key in ushering a whole new era of Funny Car design that still exists today.
“In 1966, Lincoln-Mercury dropped an ‘A-Bomb’ on Chrysler’s altered wheelbase match race ‘Funny Cars’ with a fleet of four ‘state-of-the-art’ fiberglass-bodied Mercury Comet ‘fliptop’ Funny Cars,” said Magnante, the former technical editor for HOT ROD magazine. “Each rode on a Logghe Brothers steel tube frame and was powered by a 427 SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) Ford Cammer mill. At about 1,700 pounds race ready, these ‘fliptop’ Funny Cars devastated the 800-pound heavier Mopar Funny Cars and essentially set out the ‘blueprint’ for the modern Funny Car as we know it today. John Force wouldn’t be who he is today if L-M/Logghe Bros. hadn’t conjured these wild ‘fliptop’ machines.”
A couple of other truly significant cars to cross the auction block at ‘no reserve’ will be a pair of 1969 Plymouth Roadrunners. The first, Lot No. 1262, is the initial A12 Roadrunner to ever come off the factory assembly line. The ‘A12’ designation refers the limited production, high-performance (440 Six Pack) option sold to the public for competition (mainly drag racing). This was also the actual car used and tested by former NHRA hero and factory Mopar racer Ronnie Sox in Super Stock magazine’s popular ‘Professional vs. Journalist’ article.
“As they say, there is only one ‘first’ and while the mechanical elements of this car aren’t any different than those of the subsequent A12 Six Pack units – of which 3,369 were built (number includes Plymouth Road Runner Six Barrel cars as well as Dodge Super Bee Six pack car total) – there is ‘only one number one,’” Magnante said. “That makes this car (Lot 1262) stand head and shoulders above any subsequent A12 (440 Six Pack) Super Bee every built.”
The other car, Lot No. 1262.1, might be one of the most documented and chronicled muscle cars currently in existence today. Bathed in bright green, this 1969 Plymouth Barracuda is the ‘Project Six Pack’ car that owner and writer Ted Struse debuted in the July 1972 issue of Super Stock & Drag Illustrated magazine. Knowing how special it was from the factory, Struse purchased the car as a magazine project and through the pages of his magazine turned this Cuda into a NHRA winner and eventually, a multi-time class record holder.
“The 440 Six BBL Road Runner’s (Lot 1262.1) claim to fame is not just that it is a rare mid-year muscle car offering (a corporate cousin to the Six Pack Super Bee), but also that it was a very high profile magazine project car,” Magnante continued. “Since 1964, Super Stock & Drag Illustrated (SSDI) magazine has been one of the most read car magazines among enthusiasts of Detroit high-performance machinery. Though SSDI was terminated about 10 years ago, vintage issues are very collectible and are highly sought after among today’s muscle car enthusiasts. So, to have an actual magazine project car (Ted Struse’s ‘Project Six Pack’) from the legendary SSDI magazine, that’s a double-quadruple, ‘cherry-on-top’ of this already special 19691/2 Road Runner A12 Six Barrel car.”
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event Coverage
2010 – Scottsdale, Ariz.
(All Times Eastern)
Tuesday, Jan. 19
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event 7 p.m. – Midnight (Live)
Wednesday, Jan. 20
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event 7 p.m. – Midnight (Live)
Thursday, Jan. 21
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event 7 p.m. – Midnight (Live)
Friday, Jan. 22
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event 2 p.m. – Midnight (Live)
Saturday, Jan. 23
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event 2 p.m. – Midnight (Live)
Sunday, Jan. 24
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. (Live)
SPEED is the nation’s first and foremost cable television network dedicated to motor sports and the passion for everything automotive. From racing to restoration, motorcycles to movies, SPEED delivers quality programming from the track to the garage. Now available in more than 79 million homes in North America, SPEED is among the fastest-growing sports cable networks in the country and, the home to NASCAR on SPEED and an industry leader in interactive TV, video on demand, mobile initiatives and broadband services. For more information, please visit SPEEDtv.com, the online motor sports authority.
Mecum Auctions is excited to present The Hammack Collection - an assembly of more than 50 desirable collector cars spanning three decades as well as 250 pieces of memorabilia - during its annual Kissimmee Auction, Jan. 28-31, 2010, at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Fla.
The Hammack Collection, which is the result of enthusiastic car collecting and restoration by brothers Glenn and Irv Hammack from Rockton, Ill., includes an impressive gathering of hard-to-find classics from the 1950s, '60s and '70s. The entire collection will be offered by Mecum at no reserve and features a prominent group of Pontiac Bonneville convertibles representing every year of production from 1957 to 1967, as well as a fleet of early- and mid-year Corvettes.
"Each of these top-shelf cars has been restored to superb quality and would be an excellent addition to any enthusiasts' collection," said Dana Mecum, president, Mecum Auctions. "There is a wide variety of premium memorabilia in The Hammack Collection as well, including authentic neon signs, original vending machines and oil dispensers, vintage gas pumps, pedal cars and much more."
In addition to The Hammack Collection, more than 1,000 classic, muscle and collector cars will cross the block at the Kissimmee Auction. Among the main attractions is a historically significant 1966 Riva Super Aquarama Wooden Boat (Lot S159) designed for motor racer and inventor Cal Connell. As one of just 203 Super Aquaramas built, Connell ordered Hull #125 from Carlo Riva in 1966 as a platform for his new 396/400 horsepower Chevrolet big block marine engine, making it the most powerful Super Aquarama made and the only one of its kind.
Mecum's Kissimmee Auction will be broadcast live on national TV during their popular television series, "Mecum Auto Auction: Muscle Cars & More" on HD Theater - Discovery Communications' first 24-hour high-definition cable network, offering compelling real-world and motorized content. The event is open to the general public and tickets are available at the door for $10.
The Mecum Auction Company has been specializing in the sale of collector cars for 22 years, offering more than 5,000 collector cars per year. Consignment, bidder, event and accommodation information is available online at www.Mecum.com or by calling 815.568.8888.
Schedule:
Mecum Kissimmee Auction
Osceola Heritage Park
1875 Silver Spur Lane
Kissimmee, FL 34744
Jan. 28-31, 2010
Vehicle check-in:
Tuesday & Wednesday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Thursday 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Preview: Gates open Thursday - Sunday at 8 a.m.
Auction:
Thursday - 1 p.m.
Friday & Saturday - 10 a.m.
Sunday - 9 a.m.
The Mecum Auction Company has launched a free Web application designed for car enthusiasts to stay up-to-date on the latest Mecum Auction action using their Apple(r) iPhone(r) or iPod touch(r) devices.
The new Mecum Auction Preview WebApp works exclusively with Mecum InfoNet members to allow users to search the Mecum consignment database for specific cars by make, model, year or lot number. The InfoNet, which is also free to join at www.Mecum.com, gives members access to the auction company's consignment database, weekly InfoNet Newsletter and special events.
"Car collectors want immediate access to the latest muscle cars, classics, rare race vehicles and exotics that will cross the Mecum Auction block at future events," said President Dana Mecum. "We update our car consignment database daily, and our new WebApp allows us to deliver this information right to enthusiasts' iPhone or iPod touch so there's no chance they'll miss bidding on the car of their dreams."
In addition, Mecum Auction WebApp users can view pictures and descriptions of cars going up for bid, see live auction results, use the built-in telephone or email feature to contact Mecum staff, and get convenient driving direction to upcoming auctions using the iPhone Maps application.
To download the Mecum Auction Preview WebApp for free, go to www.mecum.com/mobile with your iPhone or iPod touch browser.
The Mecum Auction Company has been specializing in the sale of collector cars for 22 years, now offering more than 5,000 collector cars per year. Consignment, bidder, event and accommodation information is available online at www.Mecum.com or by calling 815.568.8888.
Scottsdale, Ariz. – December 15, 2009 – As the year comes to a close, The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company, producer and creator of “The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™,” is pleased to announce that $6.4 million was raised for charity during the 2009 auctions in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla. and Las Vegas. To date, the auction powerhouse has generated almost $27 million for various charities across the country.
“Barrett-Jackson supports and partners with a number of charitable organizations within our auction host cities and nationwide in various ways,” said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of Barrett-Jackson. “We proudly deploy our own marketing dollars and efforts to ensure these charity vehicles for auction are getting the maximum exposure possible to potential bidders and for the various charity causes.”
On top of putting its marketing efforts behind the charitable cars, Barrett-Jackson waives all its consignment fees and sales commissions on any car sold for charity. The multi-million dollar success they have experienced with their charitable efforts is consistent with the core values of its founders.
“As I see the charity numbers roll in year after year, I’m proud that we’ve kept alive the legacy of charitable giving my father Russ Jackson and his partner Tom Barrett started 40 years ago,” says Jackson.
The Darrell Gwynn Foundation, Carroll Shelby Foundation, The Armed Forces Foundation, The American Heart Association, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, The Fisher House, United Way, The Hendrick Marrow Foundation, ChildHelp, NotMyKid and the Susan G. Komen Foundation only scratch the surface of the list of organizations that have benefitted from the sale of a vehicle at a Barrett-Jackson auction and the philanthropic actions by its customers.
“Raising charity dollars is only one part of our strong connection to charitable efforts,” adds Steve Davis, President of Barrett-Jackson. “We raise awareness of the various charity causes not only through our marking and television distribution points but we also get involved on a grass root level within each of the communities of our host auction cities by being actively involved and show that our charitable commitment is genuine and core to our beliefs.”
The company recently announced the addition of a fourth auction location, Orange County, Calif., and looks forward to a strong fundraising year. The 39th Annual Scottsdale Auction, January 18 – 24, 2010, will kick off the season.
“As we approach another auction season, we’re planning to generate another impressive charity total in Scottsdale,” added Davis. “With the economy beginning to recover from a turbulent year, these charities need our help more than ever. We’re striving to sell a record number of charity cars in Scottsdale to help these organizations like never before.”
About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company
The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company was established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces the “World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™” in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla., Las Vegas, and Orange County, Cali. Barrett-Jackson also endorses a one-of-a-kind collector car insurance offering for collector vehicles and other valued belongings. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.
Media Contact
Eric Kreller, R&R Partners, 702-318-4384, eric.kreller@rrpartners.com
Luke DeRouen, TPRM, (214) 520-3430 ext. 301, lderouen@tprm-usa.com
Mecum Auction is pleased to announce total gross sales (excluding buyer's premium) reached $6.8 million during its recent Kansas City Auction, Dec. 4-5, 2009, at Kansas City Convention Center/Bartle Hall.
"Our Kansas City Auction continues to boast significant increases year after year in both sales and attendance, and this year was no exception as we offered nearly 500 classic, muscle and collector cars to enthusiastic bidders," said President Dana Mecum. "Bidder numbers were very high and we finished the weekend with an impressive 68% sell-through rate. The new venue at Bartle Hall was a fantastic move for the Mecum Auction team as well."
Kansas City Convention Center/Bartle Hall is the largest multifaceted structure in Kansas City, Mo., that is dedicated to sports and entertainment events and features more than 388,000 square feet of exhibit space on one floor and an arena seating more than 10,000 people.
A 1968 Shelby GT500 KR Convertible 428 Cobra Jet (Lot S105.1) selling for $185,000 took the top spot at Mecum's Kansas City Auction. The Rotisserie-restored, 24,000-mile car was originally ordered as a Ford executive car and is one of only 33 KR convertibles with air conditioning and 4-speed.
The complete list of Mecum's Top 10 Sales from the Kansas City Auction (all sales figures reflect hammer prices) is:
- 1968 Shelby GT500 KR Convertible (Lot S105.1) at $185,000
- 1970 Plymouth Superbird Coupe (Lot S68) at $128,000
- 2009 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible (Lot S91.1) at $125,000
- 1964 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe (Lot S146) at $81,000
- 2009 Chevrolet Corvette CSR Coupe (Lot S84.1) at $69,000
- 1966 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible (Lot S95) at $68,000
- 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 302 Fastback (Lot S61) at $66,500
- 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air (Lot S177) at $61,000
- 1933 Ford Coast to Coast Roadster (Lot S99.1) at $57,000
- 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS Coupe (Lot S53) at $53,000
Complete auction results are available to Mecum InfoNet members, which is free to join at www.Mecum.com. Mecum InfoNet members can log in to see car-by-car results by visiting the Consignments Page.
Mecum's next auction takes place Jan. 28-31, 2010, at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Fla. Featuring more than 850 cars, the Kissimmee Auction will be broadcast live on Mecum's television series, "Mecum Auto Auction: Muscle Cars & More" on HD Theater - Discovery Communications' first 24-hour high-definition cable network, offering compelling real-world and motorized content. Tickets are available at the door for $10.
The Mecum Auction Company has been specializing in the sale of collector cars for 22 years, now offering more than 5,000 collector cars per year. Consignment, bidder, event and accommodation information is available online at www.Mecum.com or by calling 815.568.8888.
Aviation Enthusiasts and Bidders to Enjoy Exclusive Look at the Rare Hamilton
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Dec. 7, 2009 – The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company will host a preview of the rare 1929 Hamilton Metalplane H-47 (serial No. 65) scheduled to sell at No Reserve during the 39th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Scottsdale Jan. 18-24, 2010. The preview is free to the public and will take place Saturday, Dec.12 – Sunday, Dec. 13 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. each day at Fleming Field Airport. The preview will give potential buyers and aviation enthusiasts a chance to view the plane and meet Barrett-Jackson officials before it crosses the auction block. Fleming Field is located at 340 Airport Road, Hanger 5 in South St. Paul, Minn., 55075. The Hamilton Metalplane is No. 22 of only 29 built and the only airworthy example of its type in existence.
“Collectors and enthusiasts across the country will enjoy a detailed look at this stunning aircraft inside the same hanger where it was restored more than 35 years ago,” said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of Barrett-Jackson. “This could very well be the last chance to see the Hamilton before it enters a private collection.”
The peerless restoration of the Hamilton Metalplane (Lot #1307) began in 1972 after Jack Lysdale, aviation expert and fixed base operator at Fleming Field, purchased the aircraft following an abandoned restoration attempt. Many parts had to be fabricated from scratch, including the seats, nose cowlings, firewall, fuel and oil tanks, controls and electrical systems. The Metalplane was reskinned with specially manufactured corrugated aluminum rolled from original dies by the Alcoa Company. The engine is a massive Pratt & Whitney Hornet R-1690 with 525 horsepower at 1900 rpm. Once completed, the Metalplane won the prestigious Grand Champion trophy at the Antique Airplane Association National Convention in 1975, as well as the Silver Age Champion award at Oshkosh in 1976.
“Last year our preview of the Ford Tri-Motor was well attended and generated tremendous interest in the plane before it sold in Scottsdale,” added Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “The Hamilton is an equally impressive aircraft with a storied past, so we expect strong crowds and excitement in Minnesota for the preview.”
About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company
The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company was established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces the “World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™” in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla., Las Vegas, and Orange County, Cali. Barrett-Jackson also endorses a one-of-a-kind collector car insurance offering for collector vehicles and other valued belongings. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.
Media Contact
Luke DeRouen, TPRM, (214) 520-3430 ext. 301, lderouen@tprm-usa.com
Eric Kreller, R&R Partners, 702-318-4384, eric.kreller@rrpartners.com
Mecum Auction, the high-performance collector car auction specialists, is excited to announce its 2010 auction schedule.
"With everything we've accomplished in 2009 - including our sale of the record-setting 1967 Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe - this has been a banner year for Mecum Auction," said President Dana Mecum. "Our team is extremely eager to carry that momentum into 2010 with nine great events. We plan to announce additional locations throughout the year, so be sure to watch www.Mecum.com for special updates."
The 2010 Mecum auctions are:
- Jan. 28-31 at Osceola Heritage Park, Kissimmee, Fla.
- April 9-10 at Bartle Hall - Kansas City Convention Center, Kansas City, Mo.
- May 19-23 at Indiana State Fairgrounds, Indianapolis, Ind.
- June 18-19 at Minnesota State Fairgrounds, St. Paul, Minn.
- June 25-26 at Pheasant Run Resort, St. Charles, Ill.
- July 16-17 at Iowa State Fairgrounds, Des Moines, Iowa
- Aug. 13-14 at Hyatt Regency Resort and Spa on Del Monte Golf Course, Monterey, Calif.
- Sept. 16-19 at Pheasant Run Resort, St. Charles, Ill.
- Dec. 3-4 at Bartle Hall - Kansas City Convention Center, Kansas City, Mo.
Many of Mecum's auctions - including the Kissimmee, April Kansas City, Indianapolis, Des Moines, Monterey and St. Charles events - will be broadcast live on the company's television series "Mecum Auto Auction: Muscle Cars & More," which airs on Discovery Communication's HD Theater.
The Mecum Auction Company has been specializing in the sale of collector cars for 22 years, now offering more than 5,000 collector cars per year. Consignment, bidder, event and accommodation information is available online at www.Mecum.com or by calling 815.568.8888.
- Serial No. 65 is the only fully restored and airworthy 1929 Hamilton Metalplane in the world
- Rare aircraft is one of only 29 built
- The Metalplane is a Silver Age Champion and AAA Grand National Champion
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Nov. 24, 2009 – One of the rarest and most beautifully restored classic aircraft in the world, a 1929 Hamilton Metalplane H-47 (serial No. 65), will be sold at No Reserve during the 39th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Scottsdale on Jan. 18-24, 2010. The historic Metalplane was No. 22 of only 29 built and is the only airworthy example of its type in existence. Hailed as “The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™,” the Scottsdale event will feature a diverse mix of the world’s most desirable collector vehicles, as well as lavish lifestyle events throughout the week. SPEED will broadcast nearly 40 hours of live, high-definition coverage of all six auction days.
“We’re proud to announce the consignment of this very rare and stunning aircraft for our Scottsdale auction,” said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of Barrett-Jackson. “By selling the Ford Tri-Motor last year for more than $1 million, we showed that Barrett-Jackson is the hub for world class vehicle sales, including vintage aircraft. With its flawless restoration and status as the only flight worthy version in existence, aircraft enthusiast and collectors will want to make their reservations for Scottsdale in January.”
The Metalplane (Lot #1307) was originally sold in 1929 by the Hamilton Division of Boeing Aircraft to the Canadian Forestry Service. Following ownership by operators in Washington and Alaska, it was brought to St. Paul, Minn., in 1954 by Northwest Airlines pilot Harry McKee. There, Northwest Airlines’ “20 Year Club” began restoring the Metalplane, but stopped the job after only four months. The project was abandoned for several years until Jack Lysdale, aviation expert and FBO at Fleming Field Airport in South St. Paul, purchased the aircraft and embarked on a full restoration of the rare Hamilton Metalplane in 1972.
During the restoration to original specifications, many parts had to be fabricated from scratch, including the seats, nose cowlings, firewall, fuel and oil tanks, controls and electrical systems. The Metalplane was reskinned with specially manufactured corrugated aluminum rolled from original dies by the Alcoa Company. The engine is a massive Pratt and Whitney Hornet R-1690 with 525 horsepower at 1900 rpm. The aircraft’s impeccable restoration, made possible by the talent and grit of Lysdale and his team, earned the Hamilton Metalplane the prestigious Grand Champion trophy at the Antique Airplane Association National Convention in 1975, as well as the Silver Age Champion award at Oshkosh in 1976.
“The rebirth of this Hamilton Metalplane is one of the most impressive restoration feats I’ve ever seen,” added Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “From the rebuild of the Pratt and Whitney engine to the landing lights and handmade seats, Mr. Lysdale and his team spared no expense or attention to detail to return this aircraft to its original form.”
The Hamilton Metalplane will remain in St. Paul while it is being auctioned live in Scottsdale. A video highlighting its history and restoration will be shown to Barrett-Jackson attendees and those watching live on SPEED. Barrett-Jackson will host a preview of the Hamilton on Dec. 12-13 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. each day at Fleming Field Airport. The preview will give potential buyers and aviation enthusiasts a chance to see the plane and ask questions before it is sold in January. Fleming Field is located at 340 Airport Road, Hanger 5 in South St. Paul.
About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company
The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company was established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces the “World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™” in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla., Las Vegas, and Orange County, Cali. Barrett-Jackson also endorses a one-of-a-kind collector car insurance offering for collector vehicles and other valued belongings. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.
Media Contact
Luke DeRouen, TPRM, (214) 520-3430 ext. 301, lderouen@tprm-usa.com
Eric Kreller, R&R Partners, 702-318-4384, eric.kreller@rrpartners.com
- Restored 289 Shelby Cobra (CSX2091) to be sold at Barrett-Jackson for No Reserve
- Desirable early small block Cobra with solid pedigree is one of 13 in black/red
- Shelby GT350 (SFM6S002) is the first production 1996 model Shelby Mustang
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Nov. 19, 2009 – An original 289 Shelby Cobra, CSX2091, and the first production 1966 Shelby GT350, will headline a docket of spectacular cars slated to be sold at No Reserve during the 39th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Scottsdale on Jan. 18-24, 2010, at WestWorld. Hailed as “The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™,” the Scottsdale auction and lifestyle event will feature a diverse mix of the world’s most desirable collector vehicles. SPEED will broadcast nearly 40 hours of live, high-definition coverage of all six auction days.
The experts at the Shelby American Automobile Club report that CSX2091 is one of only 453 total street versions of the 289 Cobra that were built. SFM6S002 is the first production Shelby GT350 made in 1966.
“This Cobra and GT350 represent American performance at its height during a time when Ford and Shelby were beginning to flex their muscles in sports car racing,” said Barrett-Jackson Chairman/CEO, Craig Jackson. “While many wonderful Shelby cars have crossed our block over the years, I believe these cars would make a fantastic centerpiece to any collection due to their condition, rarity and historical significance.”
According to SAAC’s most recent registry, Shelby American shipped CSX2091 on June 11, 1963, to Burton Motors of Sacramento, Calif. The roadster was restored in 1991 to its original black exterior with red interior and wire wheels; it is one of 13 made in this combination. The Cobra features its original 271 horsepower engine, four-speed transmission, worm and sector steering, suspension and aluminum body.
“With their low production numbers, versatility and racing history, well maintained, documented small block Cobras have held their values over that past decade,” said Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “CSX2091 Cobra underwent a restoration to return it to its original configuration in 1991 and remains in excellent condition with only 29,687 miles on its odometer. And since original Cobras usually qualify for historic events, it can also be driven on rallies and in other high profile events.”
The Shelby GT350, SFM6S002 is the very first 1966 production Shelby built and the first of 252 “carryover” cars. The first serial numbered 66 Shelby “SFM6S001” was a standard 65 Mustang pulled from the assembly line and modified as a prototype for production 1966 Shelby’s.
“The early production ‘carryover cars’ combined the best of the 1965 and 1966 GT350 models,” explained Davis. “While it retains the hardcore performance features of the 1965 model, this Shelby also has the distinctive 1966 visual features added that set it apart from regular production Mustangs.”
SFM6S002 just received a complete ground up restoration to its original Wimbledon White with Guardsman Blue Le Mans stripes by Cobra Automotive of Wallingford, Connecticut. No expense was spared in the restoration back to its original state with many original date-coded parts.
The car is powered by its fully rebuilt 289 HiPo V8 and backed by the correct T-10M Aluminum four-speed transmission. It is equipped with a Holley 715 CFM carb, 3:89 Detroit locker rear, original dash mounted tach, wood grain steering wheel, original rear seat delete package shelf and Shelby Cragar 15” wheels mounted on Goodyear Bluedot tires. Listed in the SAAC Registry, SFM6S002 comes with its original Shelby owner’s manual supplement and authentication.
“According to the consignor, the car has a tremendous racing history,” noted Jackson. “Shortly after the second owner acquired the car, it was extensively raced in the Mid West including Road America, Black Hawk Farms, Grattan, Mid Ohio, Road Atlanta & Watkins Glen. Its ‘Number One’ production status and its racing pedigree make this a historically significant Shelby.”
About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company
The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company was established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces the “World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™” in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla., Las Vegas, and Orange County, Cali. Barrett-Jackson also endorses a one-of-a-kind collector car insurance offering for collector vehicles and other valued belongings. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.
Media Contact
Scott Black, TPRM, (214) 520-3430 ext. 303, sblack@tprm-usa.com
Eric Kreller, R&R Partners, 702-318-4384, eric.kreller@rrpartners.com
