Posted: Thursday, 11 January 2024 @ 12:40
Photo Credit: Pepper Yandell © 2017 Courtesy of RM Sotheby's
1958 Austin-Healey 100-Six "Goldie"
If you have a penchant for shiny things and half a million US Dollars to spend, then this 24-Karat gold-plated 1958 Austin-Healey 100/6 up for auction in New York City on 6th December might just be the perfect Christmas present with which to treat yourself.
Photo Credit: Pepper Yandell © 2017 Courtesy of RM Sotheby's
This unique Austin-Healey has its place in history, not only for its lavish appearance but as the big hit car that dominated the floor at the October 1958 London Motor Show at Earls Court.
Donald Healey's Public Relations Manager, Ken Gregory proposed the idea of a radically outfitted Austin-Healey to outshine the competition at the London Motor Show. Donald Healey was initially reluctant to go ahead with the project due to the high costs but Gregory's persistence changed his mind - as well as providing a buyer to commit to purchasing the car.
The car - valued at £4,000 at the time (approximate £86,000 in today's money) - was sold to the Daily Express newspaper who offered the Healey as a grand prize in a contest; the winner of which apparently sold the car shortly thereafter.
Photo Credit: Pepper Yandell © 2017 Courtesy of RM Sotheby's
After passing through a number of owners, the car was eventually purchased in 1983 by Bruce and Inan Phillips from Healey Surgeons in the USA who gave it the apt name "Goldie," however the car wasn't in great condition.
Photo Credit: Inan Phillips, Healey Surgeons
Bruce and Inan began work to restore the Healey to its former glory with a showroom finish; ready for the Healey Club show in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Photo Credit: Inan Phillips, Healey Surgeons
A.H. Spares was also involved in the restoration; we replated some of the larger pieces in gold including the wing beadings, bumpers and windscreen frame!
Photo Credit: Pepper Yandell © 2017 Courtesy of RM Sotheby's
The Healey was shown at various gatherings in the US and Canada before being reunited with Donald Healey himself. The car was eventually sold to the current owner.
Under the current caretaker, "Goldie" underwent fresh restoration work before being shown at the 2012 Concours d’Elegance of Texas.
Photo Credit: Pepper Yandell © 2017 Courtesy of RM Sotheby's
"Goldie" is up for auction at RM Sotherby's on Wednesday 6th December in New York City for between $350,000 and $550,000 without reserve. You can register to bid if you fancy a chance at owning some historic opulence but be prepared to dig deep.
Update:"Goldie" sold at auction for $179,200.
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