1910 Stanley 70 For Sale

To be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sotheby’s Hershey event, October 5-6, 2017.

• Offered from the W. Jay Milligan Collection.
• A painstaking “big horsepower” recreation by Stanley guru Carl Amsley.
• Used reliably in many steam car activities over two decades.
• Recently recommissioned by Alan Kelso.
• Ideal for the Brass Era touring enthusiast.

SOLD $121000.00


Whoever called this car a Stanley Steamer was not a friend of the Stanley brothers, as they strongly disliked that designation. It was a Stanley Steam Car, even though Stanley Steamer has now become a part of the American language. The brothers were identical twins who went by their initials, F.E. and F.O. They set about building what was, without a doubt, the most famous automobile to use steam power to propel itself down the road.

The Model 70 shown here, one of about 10 known survivors to this specification, was constructed of original and reproduction components in 1985 by the late, great steam enthusiast and Stanley expert, Carl Amsley. It is worth noting that in Stanley circles a recreation is not frowned upon, as these cars ordinarily incorporate numerous improvements and enhancements not seen in factory-stock designs.

This particular car, a 20 steam hp model with a 24 × 14-in. boiler, has superb, reliable performance, equivalent to an eight-cylinder gasoline-powered automobile. This was proven by its longtime owner, the late stunt driver and showman Jay Milligan, who purchased the Stanley from Amsley in 1987. It became a frequent participant in steam tours, including recording the fastest time in the Dead Horse Hill Climb of 1997, then ran in tours in Delaware, Vermont, and Connecticut in 2007, 2008, and 2014, respectively. Yet during all this time it was well-kept enough to achieve its AACA Grand National First Prize honors in 2004. Unused in the last couple of years due to Mr. Milligan’s health, it has been freshly reconditioned for the sale by Stanley expert Alan Kelso, and will be offered in running condition.

An exceptional Stanley for the driving enthusiast, this car boasts power like few other automobiles of its era, and provides a one-of-a-kind driving experience.

To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/.

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