Bonhams’ first auction at the Barber Motorsports Museum on Saturday, held in conjunction with the annual Barber Vintage Days, realised nearly $1.5million (£1.15million).
Stars of the show, and items that attracted intense bidding from around the world, were objects formerly owned by actor Steve McQueen. The 1970 Husqvarna 400 Cross ridden by him in the film On Any Sunday exceeded all estimates and sold for $230,500 (£176,450), whereas his 1970 Bell motorcycle helmet fetched a whopping $21,875 (£167,436).
Other stars included the rare 1928 Windhoff Four that achieved a new world record for the marque when it sold for $230,500 (£176,450), and the 1974 Ducati 750 SS made $137,000 (£104,000). Other collectors’ motorcycles that performed strongly across the spectrum were, for example, the 1936 Brough Superior SS80 that sold for $115,000 (£88,000) and the 1989 Honda RC30 that was bought for $27,025 (£20,670).
Automobilia – always a highlight of Bonhams’ sales, which included objects as diverse as Mike Hailwood’s racing leathers to original posters and trophies, was 100% sold.
Bonhams co-chairman Malcolm Barber said. “The collaboration between our team and the museum at this amazing venue proved the perfect synergy for an international sale of collectors motorcycles alongside this established weekend event.”
For complete results, visit Bonhams.com/Barber.