11th Mar, 2023 13:00
March 2023 Classic & Performance Car Auction
1961 Morris Minor Million
179 of 350 built, fully restored, only three owners from new
Registration - 5935 BT
Chassis No. - MA2531000179
M.O.T. - Exempt
Odometer - 51,692
Unique is a grossly over-used word, but this lilac-coloured lot really is a one-off opportunity to acquire not only one of just 350 Morris Millions made, but the truly immaculate No.179 that currently holds the record for the highest price so far paid for a Morris Minor of any description. ‘5935 BT’ was supplied new to the first of its three owners by Kennings Ltd on January 16, 1961. It was during the tenure of the second keeper that the car was treated to a full restoration in 2017 by the renowned Morris Minor Centre in Bristol, and they that sold it to the vendor in May 2019 for that record price of £29,500. Apparently completely standard, the most famous of all the Minor Millions is finished in the same eye-catching livery as all the others, which matches lilac bodywork to black-piped ivory-coloured upholstery, black carpets and cream-coloured steel wheels. One must assume it has led the pampered existence befitting of such an automotive star post its restoration, as it is hard to find fault with any aspect of the Morris, inside or out. ‘5935 BT’ is now being offered complete with Heritage Certificate, the 2019 bill of sale and, though it’s not legally required to have one, a current MOT certificate valid to January 11, 2024. The queue starts here!
Said to comprise Britain’s first ever automotive limited edition, the 350 Minor Millions (one for each dealer) were manufactured by Morris in 1961 in celebration of the model becoming the first British car to achieve the production milestone of a million units. All 350 were two-door saloons, but why were they all painted lilac? Well there is a rumour that it was one of a number of colours put forward and then chosen after what one might call an over-lubricated lunch. Who knows? But the choice certainly makes it easier to spot what are thought to be only 70 or so Minor Millions remaining.
In summary:
- 179 of just 350 Minor Millions made
- Just three owners and 51,712 miles from new
- Renowned for fetching the highest Minor price to date
'A Buyer’s Premium applies to the Hammer Price of this Lot if your bid is successful, as per the following; Motor Cars 12.5% + VAT (minimum £150 + VAT), Motorcycles and Bicycles 12.5% + VAT (minimum £150 + VAT); Registration Numbers 15% + VAT (minimum £50 + VAT); Automobilia 15% + VAT (minimum of £5 + VAT).'
Potential buyers should satisfy themselves with the description and condition of each lot prior to sale. Each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ as per the terms and conditions for the auction, buyers are asked to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out the service. Any disputes over descriptions will not be entertained.
Sold for £22,667
(Inclusive of Buyer's Premium)
Auction: March 2023 Classic & Performance Car Auction, 11th Mar, 2023
Our March auction of classic, modern classic and prestige cars and motorbikes will take place at Mavericks in Holywell, North Wales (half an hour’s drive from Chester). Mavericks, 8 Moyston Road Business Park, Llannerch-y-Môr, Holywell, CH8 9DQ
There will be free parking for auction attendees.
Entries are now being invited, and sellers will benefit from Hampson’s unique offering of zero sellers commission for physical auctions, meaning that vendors keep 100% of the hammer price achieved for their vehicles.
If you wish to consign your vehicle to this auction, you can request a valuation here or by calling one of the Hampson Auctions team on 01606 828124
Viewing Days:
Friday 10th March 2pm - 7pm
Saturday 11th March 9am - 1pm
Please click on the image below to discuss finance options with the Apollo Capital team led by Andy King and David Moss, experts in luxury, supercar & hypercar finance for more than 25 years. Before you bid, you must make sure you have the funds ready or have approved finance in principal with Apollo.
Fill in the form below and one of our team will get in touch with a no-obligation valuation. We will also take you through the consignment and valuation process, to enable you to make an informed decision.
If you prefer to contact us directly please call 01606 828 124 or email info@hampsonauctions.com
