The 1949 MG TC raced by Carroll Shelby in the early stages of his career drew the top bid during the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction’s first outing in Las Vegas. The $313,500 paid for the car established a new world record for MG prices.
“We’re thrilled with the outcome of our first Las Vegas event on many levels,” said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of Barrett-Jackson. “Las Vegas and Mandalay Bay welcomed us…as a strategic partner and it’s clear that consignors, bidders, and visitors were treated to a spectacular experience. Collector cars prevailed in a struggling economy, proving that they can be treated as both a hobby and an investment.”
The organization’s first Las Vegas outing attracted more than 1,200 bidders, half of them first-timers, and total sales topped the $29 million mark. Beyond the Shelby MG, the other top sellers were a 2006 Mustang GT ($300,000), a 2003 Saleen S7 ($260,700), a 1954 Rolls Royce Sliver Dawn ($225,000), and a 1969 Mustang Boss 429 ($214,500).
Seven cars sold for various charities brought in more than $655,000, including $150,000 for the 2008 Barrett-Jackson Limited Edition Shelby Mustang GT that benefited the Lili Claire Foundation.