Matchbox promotional van bought by toy collector

The 1932 Austin Seven van that was transformed in 1937 into an advertising vehicle for England’s Glory matches proved irresistible to a UK-based collector who owns the world's largest collection of Matchbox toys. He paid £10,700 at Barons' Sandown park auction on 29 October.

The most expensive lot sold was a bright yellow 1998 Ferrari F355 spider, which sold for £30,250, despite being a very late entry  and having no current MoT. But the biggest bidding battle was for the a 1977 Daimler Double Six Coupé. Estimated at £2000 to £3000, the made £5780. 

Three of the four restoration projects found new owners, who can now look forward to a chilly winter in their workshops as they tackle their latest vehicular challenges. A 1957 MGA Roadster achieved £4268, while a 1969 Daimler 250 V8 and 1954 Ford Prefect/105E sold for £692 and £800 respectively

At the fall of the final hammer, 70% of the cars on offer had sold, along with 95% of the automobilia. These results were particularly pleasing as the sale took place the day after the St. Jude’s storm, which cut through the south of England on the day most lots were due to be delivered to the venue. Happily, forewarned is forearmed, and Barons got early access to Sandown Park on the Sunday, and the majority of the lots were safely tucked up in the Esher Hall a day earlier than planned.

More information at www.barons-auctions.com or call 08454 30 60 60.

Top 10, Barons, Sandown Park, 29 October 2013