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1913 Mercer 35-J Raceabout: A Centenarian Gem Graces Broad Arrow's Monterey Auction

Synopsis: Broad Arrow Auctions, under the Hagerty umbrella, prepares to showcase a rare automotive treasure: the 1913 Mercer 35-J Raceabout. With an estimated value between $2.5 million and $3 million, this vehicle boasts an extraordinary lineage, having remained in the same family's possession since 1959. This remarkable single-family ownership, coupled with its impeccable documentation and historical significance, positions the Mercer Raceabout as a pinnacle of Brass Era automotive excellence.
Monday, July 15, 2024
1913 Mercer 35-J Raceabout
Source : ContentFactory

Broad Arrow Auctions, a subsidiary of Hagerty, has unveiled a standout addition to its upcoming Monterey Jet Center Auction: the 1913 Mercer 35-J Raceabout. Esteemed at $2,500,000 to $3,000,000, this automobile has captured attention for its singular ownership lineage within the same family since 1959, marking a remarkable 65-year tenure in the annals of automotive history.

Emerging from decades of careful preservation, the 1913 Mercer Raceabout epitomizes the essence of the Brass Era, showcasing unparalleled craftsmanship and mechanical prowess that defined early 20th-century motoring. The car's provenance is richly documented with personal correspondence, historical photographs, and family lore spanning over six decades, underscoring its exceptional status in the realm of antique automobiles.

David Swig, Senior Car Specialist at Broad Arrow, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, In all my years as a car specialist, encountering a vehicle like the Mercer is a rare privilege. It embodies the thrill and innovation of the early motoring era, standing as a testament to both the manufacturer's original engineering brilliance and the dedicated stewardship of its custodial family.

The Mercer Raceabout holds a prestigious position in automotive history as one of America's foremost sports cars of the Brass Era, predating modern icons like the Ferrari GTO by nearly half a century. Renowned for setting new benchmarks in performance and engineering during its time, Mercer automobiles remain highly coveted among collectors for their rarity and historical significance.

Broad Arrow's auction of this Mercer Raceabout presents a unique opportunity for enthusiasts and collectors to acquire a piece of automotive heritage rarely seen on the market. With only a handful of such exemplary vehicles available worldwide, the event promises to attract global interest and competitive bidding from aficionados keen to own a piece of motoring history.

The 2024 Monterey Jet Center Auction, scheduled for August 14 and 15, is poised to showcase not just the Mercer Raceabout's engineering prowess and aesthetic appeal but also its enduring legacy within the automotive community. As anticipation builds, the auction underscores the ongoing fascination with antique automobiles that embody the pioneering spirit and craftsmanship of a bygone era.

The Mercer's presence at the auction aligns with Broad Arrow's commitment to curating exceptional vehicles that transcend mere transportation, embodying stories of innovation, passion, and meticulous preservation. Its forthcoming sale represents a milestone for automotive enthusiasts and collectors worldwide, offering a rare glimpse into a century-old masterpiece of motoring excellence.

With its impeccable provenance and historical significance, the 1913 Mercer 35-J Raceabout is set to redefine automotive auctions, highlighting the enduring allure of vintage automobiles and their enduring cultural impact. As the auction date approaches, all eyes are on Broad Arrow and the Monterey Jet Center Auction, poised to celebrate and preserve this remarkable piece of automotive history for generations to come.