
Louis Frankel
Specialist
LOT 528
1910 Humber 16/20 HP Tourer Chassis no. C7292 Engine no. 9154
Founded as a bicycle maker in 1868, Humber diversified into motorcycle manufacture in the 1890s and built its first prototype automobile as early as 1896. The firm had production facilities in Coventry, Beeston and Wolverhampton.
The Coventry-built Humber 16hp offered here is believed to date from 1910. The year of production is supported by a date cast in the engine block: 'June 22 – '10', while Humber catalogues on file show a near perfect resemblance with the 16hp model introduced in 1909. This particular Humber 16hp is a lengthened version and can accommodate 4/5 passengers in the rear, making it a 6/7 seater. Unlike the standard model, it has 'suicide' doors at the rear.
This car was sold new in Buenos Aires, Argentina by Macchi, Pozzi & Riva, the local Humber importers. The original owner was a wealthy man who used the car on his vast estate. The Humber was equipped with a siren and rifle case mounted on the side, supposedly for hunting purposes. Later on it resurfaced in Monticello, New York, registered to a Mary L Briggs, who had its registration renewed in 1951 (document on file). Later, 'The Humber Register' found the car being offered for sale at New York's 'Vintage Car Store' in 1969 (correspondence on file). However, it appears that the Humber only found its next owner, Mr Dean McMinn from Sterling Heights, Michigan, in 1974 having supposedly been in dry storage since the early 1950s. The current owner bought the car on 8th October 1986, directly from Mr McMinn.
Part of the previous owner's collection for over 35 years, this 1910 Humber was much enjoyed yet remains in a remarkably original condition. The engine and body are believed to be highly original, as is much of the interior leather. According to 'The Humber Register', 'C7292' would be expected to have an engine numbered at around '9300', and this car's engine is numbered '9154'. The current owner purchased this Humber in Europe and imported to the UK (UK taxes paid), the car has had a NOVA and UK registration applied for.
A rare opportunity to acquire a fine automobile from one of Britain's pioneering makes, presented in exceptionally original condition.
Please note that there is no 1951 Registration Document with the car.
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