By Classic Yorkshire correspondent Tony Lofthouse
One of the biggest ‘barnfind’ collections ever is going under the hammer after it was uncovered in the Netherlands.
Rare classics from a Mercedes-Benz 300 S Roadster and Alfa Romeo 2600 SZ to a Rolls Royce Camargue and Studebaker President are amongst the finds listed in the sale by auctioneers, Classic Car Auctions.
The owner of the cars, known as a Mr Palmen, had built up his collection over the last 40 years, storing the vehicles in two warehouses and an abandoned church.
Mr Palmen was a car dealer in the 1960s and clearly one with a discerning taste. The enormous auction listing also includes vintage Maseratis, Ferrari, Jaguar, Aston Martin, BMW and American gems such as a Ford Thunderbird.
He treasured his cars, regularly turning over the engines and doing maintenance under the bonnet of many of his finds. Mr Palmen’s first purchase was a Lancia B20 and much of the the collection has passed the decades unrestored and original as bought.
Indeed, his activities left many locals unaware of one of the largest private car collections in Europe on their doorstep.
The auctioneers say the vehicles have stood the test of time very well, even if they are a bit dusty!
Unfortunately, the owner’s advancing years and other circumstances led to the sale of his collection to motor dealers, Gallery Aaldering.
They, in turn, are now selling the cars from the Palmen Barnfind Collection through Classic Car Auctions in an international online sale in June.
For more information on the sale visit https://www.autocar.co.nz/europes-best-kept-280-car-barn-find-secret-goes-to-auction/ or click www.classiccar-auctions.com/palmen
Please support Classic Yorkshire by subscribing for free.