Stunning VW Samba Bus could re-write records

• Believed one of three Australian-delivered ’23-window’ models

• Wonderful condition after 5-year restoration

• Appreciating asset on world market

A rare, locally-delivered 1960 Volkswagen Kombi Samba Bus could re-write Australian auction records on February 23 when it is expected to sell in the $120,000-$140,000 range at Shannons Melbourne Late Summer sale.

This stunning and award-winning 1960 Volkswagen Kombi Samba Bus is expected to set a new Australian auction record if its sells as anticipated in the $120,000-$140,000 range

The stunning, right hand drive VW Type 2 Kombi is believed to be one of just three Australian-delivered walk-through ‘23-window’ Kombi Sambas and in wonderful condition after a fastidious five-year restoration.

The VW Samba being auctioned by Shannons is believed to be one of just three Australian-delivered walk-through ‘23-window’ Kombi Sambas delivered.

Once the preserve of hippies looking for cheap, live-in transport, early Kombis have attracted a cult following around the world, with top examples routinely fetching six figure sums at overseas auctions in recent years.

The Volkswagen Type 2 was introduced in 1949 and rapidly established itself as one of the most versatile and popular commercial vehicles ever made.

Sharing the same reliable running gear found in the Beetle, the Kombi's unitary construction bodywork was supported by a ladder frame ideally suited for load carrying and it was sold initially as a van, a bus or as a pick-up.

The VW Samba ‘Kombi’ being auctioned was restored to its current immaculate condition over a five year period and has since been an award winner.

The first examples were seen in Australia in 1953 and were assembled at VW’s Clayton plant in Melbourne from 1954.

The 'step-through' T2 Deluxe Microbus with its period  'Golde' folding roof that is being auctioned by Shannons – widely regarded as the most collectible Kombi of all – was completed on December 13, 1960 and first delivered in Melbourne.

Beautiful in every detail, the Kombi is presented in the delightful two-tone period colours of Paprika and White with contrasting tan upholstery and has subsequently been the recipient of several awards, including President's Choice at the Volkswagen Club of Victoria's ‘Day of the Volkswagen’ in 2013.

The 'step-through' T2 Deluxe Microbus with its period  'Golde' folding roof is expected to draw International interest at auction on February 23 because of the model’s increasing global collectibility.

With documentation of the rebuild (including receipts) and registered in Victoria, Shannons National Auction Manager Christophe Boribon believes this is one of the most desirable Kombis to come to auction in Australia.

“It is a fabulous show piece for a Volkswagen collector and also a great and practical collectible,” he said.

View all February 23 auction lots

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