M A Y 2 0 13
MUSCLE CARS AND MOPARS
U58 OFFERED AT NO RESERVE
U91
U64
Factory Drag Car, 1 of 70 Built
Very Original with Only 6,065 Miles
Resto Mod, 572 CI Hemi
Ask Bill Sefton how he came by his love of muscle cars and he answers as if it was simply inevitable: “Growing up in Chicago in the 1960s. I turned 16 in 1967, which is when I got my driver’s license. Mr. Norm’s Grand Spaulding Dodge was in Chicago and I used to visit the dealership and listen to their
commercials on WLS radio. I lusted after those cars. I grew up in the middle of the muscle car era so that’s where my passion is.” Although Sefton professes that Corvettes are his first love when it comes to cars (his first collector car was his 1967 427/435 HP convertible and
1968 Plymouth Barracuda BO29
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1969 Dodge Charger Daytona
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1970 Plymouth Cuda Convertible
his Arizona home is called Red Vette Ranch), a large portion of his collection comprises Mopars – classic street and race Hemi cars, a Superbird with NASCAR race history, “Billy the Kid” Stepp’s 1968 Super Stock Hemi Barracuda, the 1971 “Haircut Hemi” Cuda and numerous Sixties-vintage GSS specials.
indy sunday feature collection
U81
1971 Plymouth Hemi Cuda
426/425 HP, 4-Speed, ‘Haircut Hemi’
U87
U67
U69 OFFERED AT NO RESERVE
Raced in NASCAR by Roger McCluskey
427/435 HP, Formerly Owned by Gus Grissom
Cross Ram 302 CI, 4-Speed
1970 Plymouth Superbird
“Mopar had a wider range of muscle cars than either Chevy or Ford did, and I’ve had a lot of Mopars,” Sefton explained, “in fact I’ve probably owned more Mr. Norm cars than anybody else anywhere.” That includes no fewer than six prize-winning Pro Touring machines custom built by Mr. Norm’s Garage. The
1967 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible
collection is also home to such varied pieces as a DeLorean with just 3,500 miles, a 1967 Tri Power Corvette convertible originally owned by Mercury Astronaut Gus Grissom and a 1969 Cross Ram-equipped Camaro Z28. Many are magazine feature cars; all represent the national passion for the great MECUM.COM
1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z28
American muscle cars of yesterday and today. Don’t miss the exclusive offering of 44 all-American high performance automobiles from the Bill Sefton Collection on the final day of Dana Mecum’s 26th Annual Spring Classic auction, Sunday, May 19, at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. M MECUMMONTHLY
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TO CONTACT MECUM AUCTION
Via Mail, E-mail, Phone or Fax: Mecum Collector Car Auctioneers 445 South Main Street Walworth, Wisconsin 53184 Website: www.MECUM.com Office: (262) 275-5050 Fax: (262) 275-3424 E-mail: info@mecum.com
SELL A VEHICLE
MAY 2013
CONTENTS
FEATURES
6 KICKIN’ OFF SPRING
8 SEEDING SUCCESS
PAGE
AT A MECUM AUCTION
Download a “Request for Position” form today. Visit www.MECUM.com. Click on the Seller info tab at the top of the home page to fill out or download all forms. Be sure to fill out separate forms for each vehicle when requesting positions.
Houston Auction Results
BUY A VEHICLE
Spring Gone Farmin’ Results
AT A MECUM AUCTION
10 FIRED UP IN KC
Mecum provides two ways to become a registered bidder and purchase vehicles at our auctions. In addition to conventional onsite bidding (recommended), we also offer absentee services to bid via the telephone. For complete bidder registration information, visit www. MECUM.com, click on the Bidder info tab at the top of the home page. For any questions contact the bidder department at 262-275-5050.
Kansas City Auction Results
14 MUSCLE CARS FOREVER
Limited Editions from the Post Office
18 INDY ROAD ART GUIDE
Lot Designations and Start Times
19 VOICE OF THE NHRA
Special Announcer at INDY
23 NEED HELP BIDDING? Mecum is here to help
32 BEYOND MEMORIES
Monterey Purchase Keeps Rewarding
36 MECUM AND MCACN
Mecum Official Title Sponsor Again
39 SPECIAL DEDICATION
Memorializing Mecum Originals C OLUMNS
1 5 THE DEALMAKER Six Days in May
13 AT THE REDLINE
www.facebook.com/mecumauction Nobody Sells More Than Mecum. Nobody. The Mecum Auction Company is the world leader of collector car and Road Art sales, hosting auctions throughout the United States. The company has been specializing in the sale of collector cars for 26 years, now offering more than 15,000 vehicles per year and averaging more than one auction each month. Established by President Dana Mecum in 1988, Mecum Auctions remains a family-run company headquartered in Walworth, Wisconsin.
Spring Fever
17 INSIDERS SCOOP On the Road to Indy 29 THE REAL BARN A Spoker or Two
FINDS
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MECUM.COM
Copyright © 2013 Mecum Auction, Inc. All rights reserved.
The Dealmaker
DANA MECUM
SIX DAYS IN MAY Welcome to the month of May when the world’s automotive eyes turn to Indianapolis, Indiana. The Original Spring Classic is here, and while cars of all categories are well represented at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, the dominant theme is American Muscle, same as when this event first began 26 years ago. It all kicks off on Super Tuesday, May 14 and runs through Sunday with incredible unique opportunities spanning throughout all 6 days of the event. The Indy 500 doesn’t start until a week after the auction, but with everything from entry-level collectibles to million dollar muscle cars crossing the block at Mecum, I’ve got news for everyone…the engines have already started. Thank you all for joining us at our flagship event. Buy the beautiful cars, have fun with your friends, and most importantly, enjoy yourselves.
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KickIN’ Off Spring IN HOUSTON With A $25 Million Auction It was not a quiet weekend for Houston’s Reliant Center as Mecum Auctions brought the sounds of revving engines and falling hammers echoing through the venue packed with collector vehicles and car enthusiasts from across the nation. The three-day auction held April 4-6 saw 1,034 cars cross the block and nearly 200 pieces of Road Art and memorabilia. With a sellthrough rate of 72 percent, auction sales reached a $25,062,931 total. The cars were the stars filling the Reliant Center to capacity with an incredible “something for everyone” mix of muscle cars, classics, hot rods and more. Discovery’s Velocity Network broadcast the auction action live all three days as a total of 740 cars exchanged hands. Hammering at $220,000 and garnering the top sale was a 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 429 Fastback (Lot S134) with its original 6
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drivetrain and interior. The local-toTexas restoration is a low-mile and extensively documented example of its breed, one of only 499 built and a one-owner vehicle for the past 20 years – all coveted features
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that helped drive the desirability of this already revered muscle car. Bringing a $185,000 sale and grabbing the second seat on the top 10 sales list was an extremely rareproduction Cadillac, a 1931 V-12 Roadster (Lot S159.1) complete with accessory trunk and rumble seat complementing its distinguished vintage flair. Not only was Houston a marked success, but Mecum proved once again that two auctions in one weekend isn’t too much for the world leader in collector car and Road Art sales. As more than 1,000 cars crossed the block in Houston, more than 200 tractors simultaneously went under the hammer at the Spring Gone Farmin’ Vintage Tractor Auction in Davenport, Iowa, April 5-6 achieving an astonishing 94 percent sell-through rate. Results for the tractor auction are featured on pages 8 and 9. M
HOUSTON 2013 AUCTION RESULTS TOP 10 SALES
VEHICLE
DESCRIPTION
SOLD FOR*
LOT NO.
1. 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 429 Fastback KK #2131, Original Drivetrain and Interior $220,000 S134 2. 1931 Cadillac V-12 Roadster 368 CI, 3-Speed $185,000 S159.1 3. 1954 Buick Skylark AACA Grand National, 1 of 835 Built $140,000 S130 4. 1959 Chevrolet Corvette Resto Mod LS1, Automatic $135,000 S227 5. 2009 Dodge Challenger 426 Forged street/strip Hemi motor $130,000 S258 6. 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe 427/435 HP, 4-Speed $125,000 F190 7. 1972 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS 502/540 HP, 4-Speed $125,000 S254 8. 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split Window Coupe 327/360 HP, Red/Saddle $122,000 F233 9. 1958 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible 283/270 HP, 4-Speed $107,500 F203 10. 1970 Plymouth Superbird Rebuilt to Factory Specifications $107,000 S251 * All Sales Reflect Hammer Prices. MECUM.COM
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SEEDING SUCCESS IN DAVENPORT Mecum’s third annual Spring Gone Farmin’ vintage tractor auction held April 5-6 at the Mississippi Valley Fair Center in Davenport, Iowa, proved to be one for the books with more than 470 lots of tractors and vintage farm signs and relics crossing the block – some dating back to the early 1900s. The auction brought something for everyone and in-turn achieved an astonishing 94 percent sell-through rate and total sales reached $1.2 million.
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The relaxed atmosphere of the event coupled with the excitement of the auction drew a crowd of bidders and onlookers that included everyone from dedicated collectors to families enjoying an afternoon infused with America’s rich agricultural history. The top sale of the two-day auction
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was a 1959 John Deere 430s All Fuel (Lot S48) bringing in a generous $51,000. Discovered in Chihuahua, Mexico, the fully-restored tractor is one of only 18 built, most of which were exported out of the country. The second highest sale at $36,000 went to a one-of-a-kind 1920 Samson Cane M tractor (Lot S55) that has been the feature of magazines and television shows as what is thought to be the first high crop tractor ever manufactured. M
SPRING GONE FARMIN’ RESULTS TOP 10 SALES
TRACTOR
DESCRIPTION
SOLD FOR*
LOT NO.
1. 1959 John Deere 430s All Fuel 1 of 18 Built $51,000 S48 2. 1920 Samson Cane M 1 of a Kind Tractor $36,000 S55 3. 2008 Trailer Used once since upgraded $28,000 S61 4. 1948 Ford 8N Road Maintainer Less than 20 believed to exist $24,500 S41 5. 1966 John Deere 4020 High Crop from Biechler Family Collection $24,000 S73 6. 1957 John Deere 320V Custom job tractor $18,000 S36 7. 1951 John Deere M from Biechler Family Collection $18,000 S66 8. John Deere 1920s SSP 36 x 108 $16,500 M90 9. 1951 Oliver 66 Orchard $16,000 S38 10. 1947 Farmall MV High Crop Completely Restored Fresh Overhaul $15,500 S88 * All Sales Reflect Hammer Prices. MECUM.COM
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FIRED up in KANSAS CITY
Magnificent and serene Kansas City, Missouri, turns into a car collector’s paradise twice a year when Mecum Auctions comes to town. On April 25-27, the Kansas City Convention Center was transformed into that dream location with 735 cars spread across the gleaming floor of beautiful Bartle Hall. With 446 cars selling over the three-day period for a 61 percent sell-through rate, the enduring auction brought a strong $9.6 million in total sales. The top sale at the Kansas City auction was a Historic Mount
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Vernon, N.Y., Ahrens-Fox BT piston pumper fire truck (Lot S201), which hammered at $125,000. The fully restored truck may be the finest example remaining of the
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small group of only nine that were manufactured. The second top spot on the top ten list was nabbed by a bold, Tropical Turquoise 1958 Chevrolet Impala Convertible that was the subject of a frame-off restoration and features a continental kit with a 348 CI Turbo-Thrust V-8 power plant. The car, which crossed the block as Lot S116, sold for a healthy $112,500. For access to complete auction results and other member benefits, sign up for the free InfoNet service offered at www.Mecum.com. M
KANSAS CITY 2013 RESULTS TOP 10 SALES
VEHICLE
DESCRIPTION
SOLD FOR*
LOT NO.
1. 1936 Ahrens-Fox BT Fire Truck 1 of 9 manufactured $125,000 S201 2. 1958 Chevrolet Impala Convertible 348 CI, Automatic $112,500 S116 3. 1931 Cadillac Roadster AAC National First Place winner 1996 $112,000 S121.1 4. 1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary 500 HP, 5-Speed $111,000 S106 5. 1969 Oldsmobile Hurst 442 455 CI, Two Owner Car $100,000 S131 6. 1959 Chevrolet Impala Hardtop 348/280 HP, 4-Speed $80,000 S120.1 7. 1970 Ford Mustang Twister Special 351 CI, Original Invoice $78,000 S88 8. 1968 Shelby GT500 Fastback 428/365 HP, Automatic $73,000 S94 9. 1955 Chrysler 300 Hardtop 354 CI, Automatic $67,000 S148 10. 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible 327/350 HP, 4-Speed $64,000 S105 * All Sales Reflect Hammer Prices. MECUM.COM
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MAY 14-19, 2013
Indiana State Fairgrounds - Indianapolis, Indiana
BROADCAST LIVE ON
LOT F203
1967 Shelby GT500 Super Snake
Legendary One-of-One Shelby Supercar From the Richard Ellis Collection
GET REGISTERED TO BID TODAY AT
Mecum.COM
A N D P I C K U P Y O U R S E T O F S TA R S E G M E N T C ATA L O G S W I T H Y O U R B I D D E R C R E D E N T I A L S W O R L D ’ S
T H E
INDY 2013
lots F190 - F268
INDY 2013
INDY 2013
lots t190 - t270 T H E
W O R L D ’ S
MUSCLE CAR AUCTION
MUSCLE CAR AUCTION
May 16, 2013
May 17, 2013
THURSday
May 18, 2013
FRIday
SATURdAy
SATURDAY
FRIDAY
THURSDAY
www. M E CUM . c o m
w w w.MECU M.com
Auction Company: Mecum Auction, Inc - IN License # AC30800088 Principal Auctioneer: Mark G. Delzell - IN License # AU09100124 TextedSpineCovers.indd 2
lots s109 - s188
4/16/13 4:51 PM
TextedSpineCovers.indd 3
4/16/13 4:51 PM
4/16/13 4:51 PM
At The Redline JOHN KRAMAN
SPRING FEVER
The entire Mecum staff is very proud of and excited about the upcoming Dana Mecum’s 26th Original Spring Classic in Indianapolis spanning six big days, May 14-19. The docket is jam packed with everything from entry level drivers to highend, investment-grade entries, allowing virtually everyone a chance to buy, sell or spectate at this world class event! The live telecast “Mecum Auto Auctions, Muscle Cars and More” is on Velocity by Discovery and now in Season 6. We begin airing from Indy Wednesday, May
15, and cover four consecutive, 8-hour days, for a total of 32 hours of auction action in stunning HD clarity. Of course live and complete gavel-togavel coverage is also available to anyone with a computer by visiting www.mecum.com and viewing the webcast of the entire six-day auction! In addition to Indy, Mecum is now open for entering consignments for the Bloomington Gold Corvette auction in Champaign, Illinois, on June 28-29, Des Moines at the Iowa State Fairgrounds MECUM.COM
on July 19-20, as well as The Daytime Auction in Monterey, California, on August 8-10. Despite the late spring bloom over most of the country, we are once again headed toward another record year as the world’s largest collector car auction company and we are very grateful for our dedicated and talented staff as well as our treasured customer base. Spring is finally here and the time is right to head out to a Mecum Auction. There are still 11 more great events to choose from in 2013! See you there! M MECUMMONTHLY
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MUSCLE CARS FOREVER As the original, largest and best muscle car auction in the world, Dana Mecum’s 26th Original Spring Classic has established itself as the premier venue for all things muscle and consequently the perfect place for the U.S. Postal Service to highlight its five new limited edition stamps featuring iconic muscle cars. The stamps will be featured on display and be available for purchase throughout the entirety of the Indianapolis auction this May 14-19 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds.
T187.1
1966 Pontiac GTO
389/360 HP, 4-Speed
Surrounded by the tens of thousands of muscle car enthusiasts that attend the auction each year, the Postal Service will celebrate the raw power of the American performance vehicle at the Spring Classic event with two stations where the stamp collections will be featured. Available in everything from uncut press sheets for framing to envelopes with affixed prints, the highly collectible stamps feature the 1966 Pontiac GTO, the 1967 Shelby GT500, the 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona, the 1970 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda and the 1970 Chevelle SS. Not surprisingly, Mecum’s Indy auction lineup is already flush with several representative examples of each of these five iconic muscle machines. “The Muscle Cars stamps celebrate an exciting era in American automotive history,” said Greater Indiana District Manager Bernice Grant.“Typically equipped with big, powerful engines, these high-
F224
1967 Shelby GT500 Fastback 428/355 HP, 4-Speed
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S159
1970 Chevrolet Chevelle LS6 Convertible Factory Black, Build Sheet
performance vehicles first roared onto our roads in the 1960s.” The Muscle Cars Forever stamps are the third issuance in the America on the Move stamp series and feature artwork created by Tom Fritz of Newbury Park, California, under the art direction of Carl T. Herrman of North Las Vegas, Nevada. The U.S. Postal Service’s stamp stations will be open each day of the six-day auction. Customers may view the America on the Move: Muscle
S180
1970 Plymouth Hemi Cuda
426/425 HP, 4-Speed, Broadcast Sheet
Cars Forever stamps as well as many of this year’s other stamps on Facebook at facebook.com/USPSStamps, on Twitter @USPSstamps or on the website “Beyond the Perf” at beyondtheperf.com/2013-preview – the Postal Service’s online site for information on upcoming stamp subjects, first-day-of-issue events and other philatelic news. M
F204
1969 Dodge Charger Daytona 440 CI, Automatic
Lot S122 Scheduled to be Sold Saturday, May 18 at Dana Mecum’s 26th Original Spring Classic
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Insider’s Scoop
ON THE ROAD TO INDY by DAVID NEWHARDT
There are some great perks that come along with being the chief photographer at Mecum Auctions. I get to travel to the vehicles I photograph, I have the opportunity to meet great people, and often times, I even have the chance to get behind the wheel of these stunning machines. I spend a considerable amount of time on airplanes flying from state to state and in rental cars driving from city to city – I am constantly visiting parts of the country I’ve never seen. But the real destination is always the cars, and I never cease to be impressed when the garage door of a consigner opens and the engine rumbles to life. I’ve been photographing and writing about automobiles for more than 25
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years, and I’m still floored by the quality of cars I’m shooting. The bar has been raised once again to an incredible level with the lineup for Dana Mecum’s 26th Original Spring Classic at Indy. Just when I start to think I’ve seen it all, I find myself photographing collections that leave me flabbergasted. The Higginbotham and Richard Ellis Collections are just two examples containing some of the most breathtaking cars I’ve ever been around. To see, and hear, these machines come to life never gets old. And when I have the opportunity to push in the clutch, grab first gear, and get under way, well, I have to pinch myself. The road to Indy might be long, but it’s one hell of a ride! M
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SIGN DESCRIPTION KEY: DSP: SSP: SSPN: DSPN: SST: DST: Flange:
Double Sided Porcelain Single Sided Porcelain Single Sided Porcelain Neon Double Sided Porcelain Neon Single Sided Tin Double Sided Tin 90Ëš Bend Double Sided
SSN: DSN: SSL: DSL: SSTN: DSTN:
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Single Sided Neon Double Sided Neon Single Sided Light Up Sign Double Sided Light Up Sign Single Sided Tin Neon Double Sided Tin Neon
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The Voice of NHRA Drag Racing At Indy Retired announcer Bob Frey, the voice of NHRA Drag Racing for nearly half a century, will lend his legendary chords to help Mecum Auctions pay homage to the famed racer and engine builder Bill “Grumpy” Jenkins at Dana Mecum’s 26th Original Spring Classic auction this May 14-19. Frey will take to the mic Saturday, May 18 to provide his colorful narrations for Mecum’s auctioning of “Grumpy’s Stuff,” a no reserve offering of more than 150 personal artifacts from the estate of the late Hall-ofFamer. It didn’t take Frey long to become a mainstay in the drag racing community after securing a position as an announcer in 1966. He was able to woo the crowds with his quick wit and his rare ability to engage a variety of audience members and keep everyone from gearheads to racing newcomers entertained and informed. Though Frey
finally traded in his microphone last year in favor of spending more time with his wife and grandkids, he is going to let his famous voice ring again on Mecum’s auction stage to honor a fellow household name in the NHRA world, Bill “Grumpy” Jenkins. “Bill was one of the first Super Stars of the sport that I knew,” Frey said of the late Jenkins. “I
met him in my early days, and his, while announcing at Atco Dragway in New Jersey. We always had a great relationship and it was a pleasure to be able to call him a friend.” Frey continued saying, “From his early days with the Plymouth to his induction into the International Motorsports Hall of Fame a few years ago, Bill was always the same guy, down to earth, a joy to be with and a true genius when it came to making cars run, especially Chevrolets. There aren’t a lot of real ‘legends’ in any sport but Bill was in drag racing. Let’s face it, there will never be another man like Bill ‘Grumpy’ Jenkins.” Join Mecum Auctions this May 18 in Indianapolis at the world’s original, largest and best muscle car auction for a morning drenched in NHRA history as Grumpy’s Stuff crosses the block with drag racing’s most iconic announcer Bob Frey providing the color. M
The Bill Jenkins’ 1967 NHRA National Champion “Grumpy’s Toy” Camaro (Image courtesy of the Dana & Patti Mecum Collection) MECUM.COM
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The Gus Grissom Corvette from the Bill Sefton Sunday Feature Collection
we protect what you collect. Mecum Collectors Insurance Agency (MCIA) is proud to provide you with an insurance policy for your collector cars. From antiques to modern day exotics, military vehicles to fire engines, we’ll work with you to protect what you collect. Whether you’re garaging your vehicle full time or showing it off on the road, we’re confident we can offer you an insurance policy to fit your needs. We offer multiple mileage options, including unlimited miles. Our rates are partially based on the mileage plan you select. We promise to offer both private collectors and dealers the best coverage available. All of our policies are agreed value with options including: • Nationwide towing with guaranteed flatbed service • Foreign coverage – in transit and while driving overseas • Spare parts coverage • Car club discounts
GET A QUOTE TODAY ONLINE
MECUM.COM OR C ALL
888-98MECUM (888-986-3286) Office hours are Monday – Friday 8:00AM – 8:00PM Eastern
MECUM IS HERE TO HELP.
Visit the Proxy Bid booth located IN the Auction ARENA • PLACE ABSENTEE AND/OR PROXY BIDS • LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BIDDING PROCESS • GET YOUR BIDDING QUESTIONS ANSWERED
FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ON BIDDING < - SCAN WITH YOUR SMART PHONE OR GO TO
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University of Illinois Assembly Hall Grounds Champaign, Illinois
JUNE 29, 2013
TO BE OFFERED As ONE LOT
S67 1967 Corvette Convertible 327/300 HP, 4-Speed Original and Unrestored Serial #00007 Pilot Car
S67 1967 Corvette Coupe 327/350 HP, 4-Speed Original and Unrestored Bloomington Gold Benchmark
Where Corvette People Buy & Sell to Corvette People
CONSIGN A CORVETTE
Mecum.COM R E G I S T E R 262-275-5050
TO BID
JULY 19-20, 2013
Iowa State Fairgrounds - Des Moines, Iowa
JUST CONSIGNED: THE CLASSIC CARS OF
THE CHARLES GABUS ESTATE COLLECTION ALL OFFERED AT NO RESERVE
S98 1915 Ford Model T
S94 1927 Ford Roadster
S93 1931 Ford Model A
S97 1940 Ford Deluxe Convertible
S95 1950 Ford Convertible
S91 1955 Ford 2-Door Coupe
S96 1956 Ford Thunderbird
S99 1959 Ford Thunderbird
S92 1966 Ford Fairlane
S100 1968 Ford Mustang Convertible
S90 1972 Ford LTD Convertible
S101 1982 Ford Thunderbird
Charles Gabus Estate Collection proceeds to benefit the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum at Camp Dodge.
THE CONSIGNMENT BOOK IS NOW OPEN. BROADCAST LIVE ON
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Mecum.COM 262-275-5050
REGISTER TO BID
August 8-9-10, 2013 • Walworth, WI Plus
TIME TO CONSIGN
The Real Barn Finds DAN MECUM
A SPOKER or two The John Deere D was a descendant of the Waterloo Boy and was the first true John Deere tractor. The D set the standard and had a production run of 30 years, the longest of any tractor JD has ever made. In the beginning the tractors had an exposed spoke flywheel that operators could spin to start, when most tractors of the time used a crank to start. These early production tractors have become know as Spoker D tractors and are on the top elite level for collectors. The first 50 D tractors were offered in 1923, and 1924 was the first successful commercial year with 764 tractors built. The
first series of tractors have many unique features, but the most notable is the 26-inch flywheel. Only the early tractors have the 26-inch flywheel, for mostly safety reasons the diameter was reduced to 24-inches in 1925. The Spoker D’s had a low survival rate, and are some of the hardest to find and most prized tractors in the world. My first experience finding a Spoker was during a research journey to find rare tractors at an auction in Louisiana. The day started with a weather report of severe storm warnings and to take cover, but I figured I had come this far so I went to the auction. MECUM.COM
Once the auction started, the rain came in like a monsoon and we took cover in a nearby equipment shed. The wind started blowing and the roof started to lift up and down on the shed and I was wondering what I was doing there. Eventually the storm lifted, the auction resumed and they sold the Spoker D. Gone Farmin’ now has a once in a lifetime opportunity to offer both a 1924 26-inch flywheel Spoker and a 1925 24-inch flywheel tractor at the same auction. These Spokers will be the Main Attraction at the fourth annual Gone Farmin’ auction August 8-10 in Walworh Wisconsin. M MECUMMONTHLY
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ASK FOR PART NO. CPSLSA4L85E
GET D OWN
How to
the road like
DalE Jr.
DALE JR. ALWAYS DREAmED OF A ’70 CHEvELLE. SLiCK, BL ACK, AND FAST. AND HE ALWAYS KNEW HE’D HELP PUT iT TOgETHER. HE JUST
DiDN’T KNOW WHEN. CHEvROLET PERFORmANCE HAD THE TimE-SAviNg SOLUTiON: THE CONNECT & CRUiSE CRATE POWERTRAiN SYSTEm. THiS PLUg-AND-PL AY SYSTEm COmBiNES A POWERFUL LS ENgiNE, ELECTRONiC TRANSmiSSiON, AND ALL NECESSARY ELECTRONiCS iNTO ONE COmPLETE PACKAgE FOR A FAST AND SimPLE iNSTALL. AND iT ’S ALL ENgiNEERED AND vALiDATED BY THE ExPERTS AT CHEvROLET PERFORmANCE. WE HELPED JUNiOR BUiLD HiS CHEvELLE, AND WE CAN HELP YOU FiNiSH YOUR DREAm PROJECT, gET iT DOWN THE ROAD, AN D U N FOL D YOU R STO RY. B EC AU S E W E A L L H AvE STO R i ES WO RTH TE L L iNg .
R E A D TH E FUL L STORY A N D TE L L YO U R OW N ON TH E B LO C K
c hE v yp Er fOr maN cE .c Om
©2013 GENEral mOTOrs. all riGhTs rEsErvED.
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa â&#x20AC;˘ Monterey, California
AUGUST 15-17, 2013
Time to Consign
S165 1908 Isotta Franschini Tipo FENC Two Seater Believed to be 1 of 2 Examples in Existence
BROADCAST LIVE ON
CONSIGN A VEHICLE California License #81410
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262-275-5050
REGISTER TO BID
more Memories in the It was a pleasant reminder that the 2013 Monterey auction is just around the corner when Mecum team members spotted one of last year’s top sales from the Monterey event sitting along the greens at March’s Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, one of the most prestigious concours events in the world. It was the unforgettable Emerson Fittipaldi Car that sat on the wellmanicured fairway decorated modestly with a red ribbon – an Amelia Award for Porsche 911 racing. Dennis and Terri Kranz, current owners of the famous 1974 Porsche 911 RSR IROC, stood proudly next to their prize. The two were quick to greet the Mecum team, spouting their shared enthusiasm over their love for the car, as well as their appreciation for the entire experience purchasing it through Mecum Auctions. “I go to Monterey every year,” Dennis explained. “I like the atmosphere and especially where it’s being held, but I never go to auctions to buy or sell anything,” he stated. There was something special about the Fittipaldi car, though, that caught Dennis’ eye. “Somehow I got ahold of the Mecum auction brochure of all the cars that were going up, and I saw this IROC car, and I was just drawn to it.” The car was driven by F1 and Indy star Emerson Fittipaldi in the first IROC race of that first season at Riverside International Raceway and served as a reserve vehicle for the duration. One
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of only 15 purpose-built by Penske for the IROC series, it had recently underwent a threeyear restoration and retained its original matching numbers 3.0 L “high butterfly” racing engine when it found its way to Mecum’s Daytime Auction. Dennis said he spent a few days doing some research and thinking it over before deciding he had to have the car, and come auction time, he made sure to win the bid. The couple purchased it at a hammer price of $875,000, making it the fourth top sale at Mecum’s Monterey auction. “I never thought auctions could be that enjoyable,” Dennis laughed, “but to me it was worth it – the whole show.” The couple described the entire experience as nothing less than wholly gratifying, from attending the auction to making the final transaction. Dennis commented that, “Mecum’s people were all so friendly – from the people that parked you, to the people that took care of you at registration, down to the final purchase and exchange – I even had to thank Dana (president and founder of Mecum Auctions) for running such a great show from top to bottom.”
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After purchasing the car, the couple decided to do some light restoration to it to get it showready. “It was nice already, I just finessed everything and made it better,” Dennis explained. The two are looking forward to showing it again after receiving the prestigious award at Amelia Island. The next stop for the famed IROC is the Quail
making at Monterey Lodge in Carmel, California, as the car was recently accepted for showing at the Quail Motorsports Gathering. “I don’t plan on ever selling the car,” Dennis said of his prized IROC. “I didn’t buy it to resell it. The best advice I ever read was that you buy something
when you fall in love with it. It doesn’t matter if it’s below or above the market value. You buy it because you love it; that way, you can never lose.” Mecum’s next auction in Monterey, California, is
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scheduled for August 15-17, 2013, at the beautiful Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa on Del Monte Golf Course. M
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MECUM RETURNS AS MCACN by BOB ASHTON, MCACN Managing Member
For the Mecum team, it is often possible to be in two places at one time. With an ever expanding schedule, it is not uncommon for the crew to find themselves hosting two events at once, as they will this November. While some members of the crew return to Anaheim, California, for the second annual Muscle Cars and More Auction, back in Chicagoland, team members will be on hand to bring the auction action to 36
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the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals show (MCACN). As Official Title Sponsor for the MCACN event, the Mecum Lounge will be right up front. With big screen TVs and comfortable couches, attendees will not only be able to catch some of the action from Anaheim, but maybe even take part in it. Last year several MCACN participants placed winning bids on cars as registered absentee bidders. The MECUM.COM
excitement level was high and we anticipate such participation again this year. As a supporter of the MCACN show since its inception in 2009, the Mecum Auction Company signed on as an Official Sponsor in 2011, and assumed the role as Title Sponsor in 2012. With the connection to enthusiasts who share the passion for muscle cars and more, teaming up with the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals was a natural fit. The
OFFICIAL TITLE SPONSOR MCACN event has established itself as the show for enthusiasts with a passion for the rarest and finest muscle cars and Corvettes. Well over 500 cars fill nearly 400,000 square feet of indoor exhibit space at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, each year. With the convenient location neighboring Chicago’s O’Hare Airport, it is easily accessible by car or plane. Known for special invitational
displays, the MCACN show features many cars from private collections that are rarely seen by the public. For 2013, special displays include a gathering of Plymouth Roadrunners, Camaro Z/28’s, Oldsmobile W-Machines, the Shelby Snakepit and the Corvette Triple Diamond display and competition. Also of note are anniversary displays of 1963 and 1973 Pontiac Super Duty cars, known to be among the most desirable GM muscle cars MECUM.COM
ever built. Last year the TV Tommy Ivo top fuel dragster was featured in the Mecum Lounge and for 2013, you can rest assured Dana Mecum will again feature something that will steal the spotlight. So there you have it… when it comes to the Mecum crew, being in two places at one time really is possible! For more on the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, please see www.mcacn.com. M MECUMMONTHLY
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MECUM’S GOT YOU
COVERED.
With over 50 new items, plus some of your favorites, you’re sure to find that stylish piece just right for you. From comfortable apparel to great novelty items, we’ve expanded every category, and all are decorated with the trusted Mecum name. TM
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MEMORIALIZING
MECUM ORIGINALS
HAROLD CARNES
DOROTHY CARNES
JEAN BATES
DICK COURTNEY
“Uncle Harold” was Mecum’s original “setup man,” one of the most crucial roles at Mecum, pulling each auction together. It didn’t matter where or when it was being held – Uncle Harold was always able to get it up and running in time for the first scheduled vehicle to cross the block. He was the man with the plan, and it was his keen sense of urgency and dedication that kept Mecum’s auctions running smoothly, allowing the company to host more and more auctions each year. Uncle Harold established one of the most important traits of Mecum Auctions and what set the platform for the company’s exponential growth; he figured out a way to get it done.
“Aunt Dort” was Mecum’s original “gate-keeper,” controlling the entrance to the auction office with her no-nonsense, fair-butfirm demeanor. Nobody got passed Aunt Dort’s infamous white stick – reminiscent of a school teacher’s yardstick – without either first getting permission, or ending up with a swift (though harmless) whop from the stick itself. Aunt Dort’s real gift to Mecum was the order she introduced to a bustling business office and the respect and patience she was able to instill in others simply by possessing it and demonstrating it herself.
Jean Bates was the original standard in what a customer service representative stands by to this day. Her smile lit up the room and she never once left an unhappy customer in her wake. The way she spoke with and handled each customer as though they were the most important person on earth is what Jean did best, and it is thanks to the example she set for all future Mecum employees that the company’s customer service practices are second to none. Jean taught everybody to smile just a little more.
“Grandpa Dick,” as many knew him, was the original Mecum marketing machine. Dick’s creative vision helped to effectively steer Mecum’s wheels toward achieving the notoriety and success the company celebrates today. His role with Mecum dates back to the early days of the company. Stationed at Dana and Patti Mecum’s kitchen table, Dick would hold down the fort answering phones and handling the day-to-day tasks as the business gained momentum. He never let up and only served to fuel the Mecum drive with the marketing ingenuity he consistently brought forth. His vision and inspiration still live within the heart of Mecum marketing practices today.
1931- 2013
1929- 2012
1946 - 2012
Join Us on the Auction Block Saturday May18 at 12pm for a Special Dedication to The Mecum Originals
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1934- 2013
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445 South Main,Walworth,WI 53184
MAY 14-19, 2013
Indiana State Fairgrounds - Indianapolis, IN
JUNE 29, 2013
University of Illinois Assembly Hall Grounds - Champaign, IL
JULY 12-13, 2013
Milwaukee Mile at Wisconsin State Fair Park - West Allis, WI
NON AUCTION EVENT Hosted by The Harry A. Miller Club
JULY 19-20, 2013
Iowa State Fairgrounds - Des Moines, IA
CELEBRITY ITEMS AUCTION Vintage
Tractor Auction
JULY 26-27, 2013
Santa Monica Air Center - The Barker Hangar - Santa Monica, CA
AUGUST 8-10, 2013
2000
ITEMS BROADCAST LIVE ON
Walworth, WI
AUGUST 15-17, 2013
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa - Monterey, CA
SEPTEMBER 4-7, 2013
Dallas Convention Center - Dallas, TX
OCTOBER 10-12, 2013
Schaumburg Convention Center - Schaumburg, IL
Davenport
Iowa Premier
NOVEMBER 2, 2013
Mississippi Valley Fair Center - Davenport, IA
NOVEMBER 21-23, 2013
Anaheim Convention Center - Anaheim, CA
DECEMBER 5-7, 2013
Kansas City Convention Center at Bartle Hall - Kansas City, MO
BROADCAST LIVE ON