Over 800 pieces of Ferguson memorabilia went under the hammer at Cheffins Machinery sale ground at Sutton, near Ely on 25th November, as part of the Jim Russell Sale.
Forming one of the largest and most comprehensive Massey Ferguson collections worldwide, the auction exceeded expectations, with sales throughout Europe, Canada and Australia. The collection was put together over a 50-year period by farmer and Massey Ferguson enthusiast, Jim Russell, and included the final signature written by Harry Ferguson, dated 6th April 1954, prior to his resignation as Honorary Chairman at Massey-Harris-Ferguson Engineering Ltd on July 20th, 1954. This was sold for £3,248.
Other highlights included 1936 Ferguson type-A tractor which sold for £35,736; a scratch built 1933 Ferguson black tractor which made £13,440 and a Ferguson Demonstration model by Mills Bros from 1949 which sold for £11,220. Among the literature, a Ferguson Demonstration Model instruction book sold for a staggering £9,296. High prices were also achieved for models including a Ferguson TO-30 with a two-row potato planter which made £2,576 and a Ferguson tractor diecast by Micro Models which made £2,240 and an Airfix Ferguson model tractor kit which sold for £2,016.
Tom Godsmark, Associate, Cheffins says:
“The Jim Russell Collection was one of the largest private collections of Ferguson models, tinplate toys and memorabilia to ever have come to auction and is most likely to be one of the largest of it’s type in existence This was a very successful sale that saw bidding from all around the world, including Canada, Australia and throughout Europe, with many record prices achieved. The almost £10,000 paid for the Ferguson instruction book was a particular highlight, and the results of this sale go to show the enduring popularity of the Ferguson brand in vintage circles. Jim Russell was one of the most admired collectors in the field, and it was a pleasure to conduct such an auction.”
For more information, please contact Cheffins auctioneers on 01353 777767, machinery@cheffins.co.uk