A remarkable collection of rare vintage and classic cars, amassed over nearly 60 years by twin brother pharmacists, is set to go under the hammer this Saturday 29 June 2024 at Lloyds Auctioneers and Valuers.
The collection, which includes some of the rarest cars, was curated by the late Peter Learmont and his twin brother, both pharmacists and avid car enthusiasts from Cooma, NSW. The photo above is 1957 Ford Sunliner.
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A Lifelong Passion for Classic Cars
Peter Learmont, known as the man with “petrol in his veins,” spent almost 60 of his 92 years assembling this impressive collection of classic cars. Peter and his twin brother shared a lifelong passion for cars, and this collection is a testament to their dedication.
The cars were stored in the Learmont Pavilion at the Sapphire Coast Historic Vehicle Club for many years. Following Peter’s passing in 2023, the family decided to auction the collection, hoping to pass these treasured vehicles on to the next generation of custodians.
A Highlight of the Collection
One standout vehicle in the collection is a 1929 Chevrolet roadster, which featured in the Phar Lap movie filmed at Adaminaby Racecourse in the early 1980s.
Another story goes that this car was driven to the top of Mount Kosciuszko in reverse.
1929 Chevrolet Roadster, 194 Cu in 6 cylinder OHV motor. 3 speed non synchromesh transmission, four wheel mechanical brakes.
The first mass-produced GM inline 6 engine was introduced in 1929 for Chevrolet cars and trucks, replacing the company’s previous inline 4 engine.
The bodies for vehicles sold in Australia were manufactured by Holden Motor Body Builders in Adelaide.
“We are honoured to be able to auction these cars with such a special story on how they were curated, and each vehicle with a unique story of their own,” said Mr. Lee Hames, Chief Operations Officer for Lloyds Auctions.
The Beginnings of a Collection
The story of this collection began when Peter and Don Learmont traveled to Canada in the mid-1950s, a time when new cars were scarce in post-war Australia.
They returned with three 1957 Chev Bel Airs, specially painted to withstand Australian conditions. These cars remained in the family and are now part of the auction. The Learmont family hopes the cars will find new owners who will cherish and care for them as Peter did.
Peter’s passion for collecting cars continued throughout his life, with each vehicle having its own unique history. Notable stories include using the Chevy Bel Air to transport his newborns from the hospital.
The collection includes 24 historically significant vehicles dating from 1915 to 1976, featuring makes such as Holden, Datsun, Ford, Chevrolet, Buick, Chrysler, Studebaker, and Lincoln.
“Whether you’re after a vintage car or an iconic classic, there is something for all passionate investors within this auction,” continued Mr. Hames.
1959 MG Roadster also at auction this weekend.
Auction Details
The collection of classic cars will be auctioned alongside over 100 other classic vehicles in Lloyds’ LIVE Classic, Muscle, and Barn Finds auction, which closes on Saturday, June 29th from 12 pm. This event offers a unique opportunity for car enthusiasts and investors to acquire a piece of automotive history. You can view the entire auction here.
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