History was made April 20-21, 2023 at the Carlisle Expo Center as part of the Spring Carlisle Collector Car Auction.  Carlisle Auctions, hosting its second auction event of the year, not only achieved $6 million in total sales and a 68% sell-through rate, but notched its highest-ever top-dollar sale when a 1953 Corvette sold for $324,000.

As the cars and trucks loaded in on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of auction week, the anticipation of those browsing the staging lot grew to a fever pitch.  450+ lots were planned and bidders had the chance to review each from bumper to bumper, while spectators and car lovers alike took pictures and shared stories of “a car like that from when I was younger.”  From the early 1900s to modern day, each vehicle glistened in the sun in anticipation of its sale.

From the first smack of the gavel on April 20 to the final hammer to fall on April 21, the interior of the Expo Center and its adjoining parking lot were hopping.  The roar of the engines, the smell of car care products; it was a true sensory experience.  Not only was the ’53 the star of the event, but Carlisle Auctions was fortunate to procure a 20-car collection by way of enthusiast Robert Metzgar.  19 of those 20 sold and the planned All-Truck Hour at 4 p.m. on April 20 went beyond an hour, with 72% (35 of 48) selling.

The top five (5) selling cars totaled nearly $640,440.  The ’53 Corvette was the top seller on Friday (and overall), while Thursday’s top-selling lot was a 1960 Cadillac Series 62.  All dollar amounts include applicable fees associated with the sale.  The top five (5) are as follows:

1. 1953 Corvette$324,000
2. 1962 Ford Galaxy$89,100
3. 1960 Cadillac Series 62$84,240
4. 1956 Ford Sunliner$72,900
5. 1967 Plymouth GTX $70,200

(click to view results/e-mail address required) 

“We were honored to sell #100,” said Director of Auction Operations, Tony Cline.  “It was the pinnacle of a fantastic Spring Carlisle Collector Car Auction,” continued Cline.  “In addition to the sale of the ’53, we saw great success with the Robert Metzgar Collection AND our All-Truck Hour continues to be a winner for both buyers and sellers alike.”

Finally, Carlisle Auctions has already turned its attention towards September and the Fall Carlisle Collector Car Auction.  The auction is September 28-29 and runs in conjunction with the Fall Carlisle Collector Car Swap Meet and Corral.  Fall Carlisle itself is September 27-October 1.  As noted by Cline, the opportunity to get involved with the auction is open and ongoing.  Call 717-960-6400 or visit CarlisleAuctions.com to learn more.