For Sale at Auction: 1933 Ford V8 in Williamston, Michigan

From the Don Henley Collection VIN: 18288886 Clean IL Title See it run and drive! An Exceptionally Rare Flathead V8 Commercial Ford with Award-Winning Provenance One of the rarest commercial vehicles produced during the early Flathead V8 era, this 1933 Ford V8 Roadster Pickup is an outstanding example of Ford's revolutionary first-generation V8-powered truck. Combining unmistakable styling, exceptional rarity, documented history, and concours-level restoration, this remarkable pickup represents one of the most desirable commercial Fords of the prewar era. Powered by Ford's legendary 221-cubic-inch Flathead V8, producing 75 horsepower, the 1933 model marked a significant advancement in commercial vehicle performance and helped establish the Flathead as one of the most influential engines in automotive history. Only 306 Roadster Pickups were produced for the 1933 model year, making surviving examples exceptionally scarce today. Highlights • 1933 Ford V8 Roadster Pickup • One of only 306 produced • 221 cu. in. Flathead V8 engine • 75 horsepower • Three-speed manual transmission • Rare open-cab commercial body • Finished in factory correct Golden Orange • California truck for most of its life • Professionally restored to concours standards • Documented ownership history and restoration Exceptional Provenance The story of this remarkable pickup began with what was intended to be the purchase of a Harley Hummer motorcycle. While inspecting the motorcycle in a local collector's garage, the current owner noticed an unusual truck tucked quietly into a corner. Believing it to be a Model A, he was surprised to learn it was actually a 1933 Ford V8 Roadster Pickup-a vehicle he immediately recognized as extraordinarily rare. Originally a California truck for most of its life, it had later passed from father to son before finally becoming available after careful persuasion from its longtime owner. The truck's rarity and remarkable condition made it impossible to forget, and it was purchased that very evening. Following the acquisition, the truck underwent a meticulous, body-off restoration completed through a unique father-and-daughter partnership between Don Henley and Megan Henley Brown. The restoration preserved numerous original characteristics, including an exceptionally well-preserved metal bed floor and clearly identifiable frame serial numbers in multiple factory locations, confirming the truck's authenticity. Award-Winning Restoration Following its concours-quality restoration, this exceptional Roadster Pickup earned numerous prestigious national honors with Antique Automobile Club of America: • AACA First Junior, 2008 • AACA First Senior, 2008 • AACA First Grand National, 2009 • AACA Senior Grand National, 2013 • AACA Multiple Preservation Awards • AACA George M. Holley Excellence Award - Central Division • Early Ford V-8 Club of America Dearborn Award The coveted Dearborn Award from the Early Ford V-8 Club of America, recognizing its outstanding authenticity and restoration quality. The Dearborn Award is among the organization's highest honors for accurately restored Early Ford V-8 automobiles. Historical Significance The 1933 model year represented an important milestone for Ford. Building on the success of the revolutionary Flathead V8 introduced the previous year, Ford refined both the styling and engineering of its commercial vehicles. The redesigned trucks featured smoother, more streamlined body lines while retaining the rugged durability expected by commercial buyers. The 75-horsepower Flathead V8 quickly became one of the most celebrated engines in automotive history, prized for both its performance and its lasting influence on American hot rodding. Roadster Pickups were used primarily throughout the western United States in orchards, farms, and light commercial service. Their open-cab design and limited production have made surviving examples among the most sought-after prewar Ford commercial vehicles. Finished in its distinctive factory Golden Orange commercial color, this truck stands apart even among the very few remaining examples. Auction Opportunity Rarely does a 1933 Ford V8 Roadster Pickup of this caliber become available. Combining extraordinary rarity, documented California history, concours-quality restoration, nationally recognized awards, and a compelling family ownership story, this exceptional pickup represents one of the finest surviving examples of Ford's iconic early V8 commercial vehicles.Whether destined for concours competition, museum exhibition, or a premier private collection, this award-winning Roadster Pickup embodies the innovation, craftsmanship, and enduring appeal that have made the 1933 Ford V8 one of the most celebrated vehicles of the prewar era.