$4.6 Million Coin Flip for the 1966 Batmobile from George Barris
America’s enduring fascination with Hollywood is no secret. Certain movies have become cultural cornerstones, transcending the silver screen to become icons in their own right. As a result, items featured in these films can command premium prices, especially when it comes to automobiles that played starring roles.
The value of movie cars can be astonishing, depending on the film’s popularity and the actors associated with the vehicles. The most pristine and complete version of the car used on set, often referred to as the “hero car,” can fetch mind-boggling sums.
In this article, we delve into a machine with profound ties to Hollywood and car culture: the 1966 Batmobile. This vehicle isn’t just famous for its on-screen appearances; it’s also closely associated with George Barris, one of the most renowned automotive artists in history.
In a throwback clip from Barrett Jackson, we witness the iconic Batmobile making its way across the auction block. Spectators were in for a surprise as George Barris himself took the stage as the auctioneer, and the bids started to climb to astronomical heights. The price tag soared past the amount most people earn in a lifetime, eventually reaching a staggering $4.2 million.
When the dust settled, it came down to a coin flip between two determined bidders who had pushed the price to its limits. In the end, the winner of the coin flip secured the iconic Batmobile for $4.3 million. The final price, including fees, reached a remarkable $4.62 million. This made the Batmobile the most expensive car ever sold by the auction house at the time, trailing only a 1966 Shelby Cobra 427 Super Snake, which went for an impressive $5.5 million.
The allure of Hollywood memorabilia, especially when it takes the form of legendary cars like the Batmobile, continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike. These pieces of cinematic history remind us of the magic of the movies and the nostalgic appeal of iconic vehicles. Photo Credit – Barrett-Jackson
