Silverstone Auctions has announced that a “remarkably well-restored” Ford GPW Jeep used by King George VI and General Carl A. Spaatz, commander of Strategic Air Forces in Europe, on a morale-boosting visit to RAF Chelveston on 14th November 1942, is heading to auction.
The auction company notes the Ford GPW Jeep was built from 1942 to 1945 and, as well as the Willys-built Jeep, are the iconic World War Two Jeep. The Ford Jeep was then designated ‘GPW’, with the ‘W’ referring to the ‘Willys’ licensed design. “Over” 500 000 units of these army vehicles were produced.
“[It] would be great fun to use”
Silverstone Auctions expects this example to fetch between £35 000 and £45 000 when it goes under the hammer on February 25th. At the current Rand-Pound exchange rate, these figures amount to R746 708.54 and R959 591.17.
This model is sold with a history file with “fascinating” documentation outlining its provenance, including its current V5C registration papers ready for transfer or export. There is also photographic evidence of when the Ford GPW Jeep was used during the Royal visit, as are an inspection report by the Norfolk Military Vehicle Group and detailed receipts for restoration works.
“This is a super opportunity to take ownership of a fine example of an iconic military Jeep with a rather interesting history. Absolutely on-the-button, 20118614 would be great fun to use, a fabulous addition to any collection and well received at every classic car or military vehicle event anywhere,” said the company.
As a reminder, this isn’t the only Royal vehicle Silverstone Auctions has auctioned. Last year, the firm listed a 1953 Land Rover, which was exclusively used by Their Majesties Queen Elizabeth II and Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother with HRH Prince Phillip, The Duke of Edinburgh and The Duke of Rothesay (Prince Charles) until 1966.
