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1964 Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe Fetches $43M, Setting American Car Record

market-auction · 2026-08-19

At the 22nd Pebble Beach Auctions held on August 14 and 15, the 1964 Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming the most expensive American car ever auctioned, selling for $43 million. Organized by Gooding Christies, the event amassed a total of $159 million, marking a 24% rise compared to the prior year. Out of 158 lots offered, an impressive 94% were sold, including 28 that surpassed the $1 million mark. The average lot price reached $1,005,681, reflecting a 19% increase from last year. This sale set a new global record for American automobiles, surpassing previous records by over $20 million and underscoring the robustness of the collector car market.

Key facts

  • The 1964 Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe sold for $43 million, setting a world record for American cars.
  • Gooding Christies achieved over $159 million in total sales at the 22nd Pebble Beach Auctions.
  • The auction took place on August 14 and 15 on the Monterey Peninsula.
  • Sales total increased 24% from the previous year.
  • 158 lots were sold, with a 94% sell-through rate.
  • 28 lots sold for over $1 million.
  • The average price per lot was $1,005,681, a 19% increase from the previous year.
  • The record was set by a margin of over $20 million.

Entities

Institutions

  • Gooding Christies
  • Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance
  • Pebble Beach Auctions

Locations

  • Monterey Peninsula
  • Pebble Beach
  • United States

Sources