Matchbox Car Auction Draws Global Interest, Sells 740 Lots

A significant auction event took place recently as Proctor Auctions facilitated the sale of 753 lots from a renowned Matchbox car collection. The collection, amassed over eight decades, included more than 7,500 Matchbox cars owned by an enthusiastic collector who began his passion at the age of six and continued until his recent passing in his 80s.

Ronnie Proctor, the owner of Proctor Auctions, noted that approximately 5,000 pieces from this extensive collection were available for bidding. The collector’s family had previously sold around 2,500 cars independently. The auction attracted significant interest, with 740 lots successfully sold to a combination of 20 on-site bidders and 555 online participants hailing from New Zealand, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Among the highlights of the auction was a Volkswagen racer, which sold for $750, bundled with another vehicle. A few tank models also fetched around $600 each. Proctor remarked that the auction had drawn several Matchbox car collectors “out of the woodwork,” indicating the event’s success. He added, “It’s pretty good for us and it feels good for the vendor.”

Unique Features of the Collection

The collection encompassed cars from the 1950s to the 2000s, showcasing a wide range of models. Proctor highlighted that some pieces were quite rare and valuable, stating, “He was collecting for a long, long time. It’s been a big labour of love for him.” The cars were stored throughout the collector’s home, necessitating a large truck for their transport from Invercargill to Dunedin for the auction.

Historically, collectors from the United States and the United Kingdom received the standard black and brown model cars, while New Zealand and Australia offered unique variants. This distinction has consistently attracted international collectors, as Proctor explained, further enhancing the appeal of the collection.

The successful auction not only underscores the enduring popularity of Matchbox cars but also highlights the strong interest in collectible items across borders. As the global market for such memorabilia continues to thrive, events like this one offer both vendors and collectors a valuable opportunity to engage and celebrate their passions.