Barn-finds and restorations top a million for Silverstone

Silverstone Auctions enjoyed a pass-through rate of 85% with more than £1m in total sales at what it claims is the largest collection of barn finds ever offered in one auction. It was a very good showing for the first Restoration Show at the NEC in Birmingham, and proof that event auctions are gaining even more momentum.

A number of fascinating cars were sold including a 1958 Jaguar XK150 Drophead Coupe, which was described as a true barn find. It was discovered in Sicily a short while before the sale, and was repatriated back to the UK. The car sold for a premium inclusive total of £62,100, more than double its lower estimate, and a very good price for an otherwise healthy example.

The top seller at the sale was a restoration project 1962 Facel Vega HK500 (below), successfully sold for £64,400. An international bidding war saw a rare 1969 Aston Martin DBS Vantage (above) eventually sell for premium inclusive £51,175, more than double its upper estimate - and again, a good price for a good, usable on-the-road example. Another DBS barn find, a 1970 V8 Series I, proved equally popular selling for £49,450.

A 1939 Lagonda V12 Hooper two door saloon that was set to go under the hammer at the sale was snapped up in a significant six figure pre-auction deal. The auction house does not usually accept pre-auction sales but due to the gravitas and strength of the offer, and in full consultation with the vendor, it was impossible to ignore.

Managing director of Silverstone Auctions, Nick Whale, said: 'I’m delighted with the results we’ve achieved for our vendors in the biggest ever auction of its type. If ever proof was needed for the enduring appeal of the barn find then surely these results are it. This was a fantastic sale and we look forward to seeing many of the restoration projects brought back to their former glory very soon.'

More at www.silverstoneauctions.com