Hidden Gem: Tucker 48 Auction – No. 1021 Heads to Sale

Rarity in the Spotlight: Tucker 48 No. 1021 – Headlining Kissimmee 2024 Auction with a Hefty Asking Price

A piece of automotive history is set to grace the floor in Kissimmee 2024 with the rare Tucker 48 auction time already set. Serial number 1021, is not just another vintage car; it’s a unique specimen that holds the distinction of being one of only 51 ever produced. What sets it apart further is that it’s one of a mere four Tuckers to boast the sleek and timeless Black exterior color.

Historical Significance:

Originally completed on August 29, 1948, this Tucker 48 was marketed as the “Car of Tomorrow.” Crafted at Tucker’s assembly plant in Chicago, Illinois, it carries the distinct design touch of Alex Tremulis, adding to its allure. The car is meticulously documented, maintaining its originality with the Black over Beige interior, making it a rare gem in the Tucker lineup.

Provenance and Ownership:

No. 1021 has a well-tracked journey through time, changing hands only thrice since its completion. Starting its journey in 1949, the Tucker Corporation sold it to Charles DeCosta, a California dealer enamored with Tucker’s vision. Gene Clark, another Tucker enthusiast and member of the Tucker Automobile Club of America, took the reins in 1967, cherishing and maintaining it until 2023. This car is stunningly beautiful.

The most recent custodian, Mark Liebermann, senior director of the Tucker Automobile Club and a respected Tucker historian, ensures that No. 1021 continues to be celebrated as a piece of American automotive history. He does not believe there will not be another Tucker 48 auction anytime soon. By our estimates, he’s correct.

Unique Features:

Beyond its rarity, Tucker 48 No. 1021 boasts distinctive features that set it apart. The flush-mounted and centrally-located rotating “cyclops eye” third directional headlight adds a touch of innovation. The original floors and body panels, coupled with its air-cooled 335 CI horizontally-opposed rear-mounted flat 6-cylinder engine, contribute to its authenticity. This car is a gem.

Converted to coil spring suspension in the late 1960s, the car has seen thoughtful updates while retaining its original charm. A recent service, including fluid changes, a new battery, water pump, and distributor rebuild, ensures that No. 1021 is not just a relic but a functional piece of history. We believe any collector would be happy with this.

A Hollywood Connection:

This Tucker 48 has had its moment in the limelight, undergoing a repaint and interior re-upholstery for its role in “Tucker: The Man and his Dream.” The original paint is still present in door jambs, serving as a testament to its cinematic journey. What a unique touch!

What are The Tucker 48 Auction Expectations?

Documentation and Extras:

Tucker No. 1021 comes complete with a rich array of documentation, including a copy of the original bill of sale, letters from the original owner to the second owner, factory build records, and various other Tucker-related records. This meticulous record-keeping adds another layer of authenticity and historical value to this remarkable automobile.

As it heads to the auction block with an estimated value between $1.7 million and $1.9 million, Tucker 48 No. 1021 isn’t just a car; it’s a rolling piece of American history. It is ready to find its next custodian among those who appreciate automotive excellence and the enduring legacy of Preston Tucker’s visionary dream.

Photos: Mecum Auctions

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