The two-cylinder Model A Runabout was Henry Ford’s first-series production automobile, sold after the establishment of Ford Motor Company on June 16, 1903. Only 670 examples were assembled at a former wagon factory on Detroit’s Mack Avenue. Despite its sound design, the little Ford was unrecognized by the Association of Licensed Automobile Manufacturers, but Henry Ford persevered and prospered, and by January 1911, reached “folk hero” status by prevailing in court over the monopolistic Selden Patent Group.

This 1903 Ford Model A Runabout is simply a wonderful early product of Henry Ford’s enduring enterprise. Following assembly, according to records on file, it was reportedly retained by Ford Motor Company for potential use in the settlement of any patent dispute cases. Subsequently, the Model A was sold to the Stevens Institute in Newark, New Jersey, remaining there until 1964, when the unrestored Model A was acquired by its next owner, who along with their family, would retain it for the next 55 years. That year, the Model A took AACA National First Prize honors and during the early 1970s, it was restored by vintage car expert Ralph Buckley, followed by just one road outing in celebration of its completion. Highly engaging throughout, this Model A Runabout is a rare find at auction and, while requiring mechanical recommissioning, it offers a wonderful potential entry to a wide array of vintage car events, shows, and the annual London-to-Brighton Run.

*Please note that this Lot, like all vehicles in this Auction, has been in long-term static storage and may not be currently operational. It will require mechanical attention prior to any road use.

Gooding & Company presents and conducts the Estate of Mark Smith Auction under the authority of John J. Rendemonti, Executor of the Estate of Mark J. Smith, duly appointed by the Circuit Court of the State of New Hampshire, Probate Division, Case Number 312-2022-ET-00072. The Estate has compiled available title and/or registration paperwork for the Vehicles offered in the Auction and will provide such paperwork to the Buyer if it is available. However, as set forth more fully in the Conditions of Sale, neither the Estate nor Gooding makes any representation or warranty with respect to any existing certificate of title or registration with regard to any Lot in the Auction. Any Lot may be sold on a Bill of Sale. By participating in this Auction, all bidders and buyers recognize that Estate and Gooding have expressly disclaimed all such warranties concerning the availability or sufficiency of any title or registration documentation.