Broad Arrow Auctions present an outstanding example of the vaunted 1948 Tucker ’48 with this particular example, the third production car by serial number, fitted with numerous early features and complete with an extensive, known ownership history including Bill Pettit as former owner.
Provenance is further enhanced as it was formerly owned by Tucker: The Man and His Dream executive producer George Lucas and residing at Skywalker Ranch for many years. Outfitted with original engine and finished in Maroon over Beige and extensively documented by marque experts Mark Lieberman and Mike Tucker in concert with Cammack Tucker Archives at AACA Museum in Hershey, Pennsylvania.
Despite the extraordinary innovations, an enticing marketing campaign, and stunning design work that included the likes of Alex Tremulis, the story of the Tucker ’48 is sadly equally famous, if not more so, for the troubles that plagued the company and its founder than the truly innovative work that went on behind the scenes.
Reputation
Despite raising $17 million in an industry-leading stock IPO, Preston’s fundraising initiatives also included selling dealerships and distributorships, and starting an accessories program, through which the buyers could select from a variety of choices before the car they hoped to buy was even completed. The Securities and Exchange Commission, however, saw things differently, investigated the matter and despite being vindicated in the legal proceedings that followed, the damage done to Tucker’s reputation by the SEC, various politicians, and perhaps even the Big Three car manufacturers was permanent.
Was Preston Tucker a fraud or merely a showman and clever marketer who lost his grip on a massive concern? Were the Big Three intent on undermining the viability of his business and ensuring his failure? Opinions abound, of course, but two things are undeniable – the Tucker ’48 was one of the most innovative cars of its era and for those students of history who believe in his vision, the sheer scale of his operation and the countless proprietary innovations produced in-house by Tucker clearly suggest Preston had every intention of delivering on his promise to the American consumer.
Special
As presented today, 1003 is a lovely example of a groundbreaking and iconic American motor car. That its production history, unique outfitting, and provenance are so well known is all the more special. Aside from its limited production elements, there are multiple additional features that also speak to the car’s early production status – namely, the exhaust tips attached to the rear bumper, round brake and clutch pedal pads, interior window cranks, non-directional frosted turn signal lenses, Cord-style pre-selector shifter, distributor, front “rubber cushion” suspension, and front frame configuration.
Tuckers are offered publicly very infrequently, and as such, the presentation of 1003, formerly owned by Bill Pettit and George Lucas, restored and presented in its original colors and with its original engine, is a particularly enticing proposition for collectors of the finest American motor cars.
Estimate is $1,500,000 – $2,000,000 and bidder registration is now open, along with various remote bidding avenues, so please visit the website to register in advance, or contact the Client Service team should you need any assistance with the registration process.
