Merging into the more obscure collectibles, components and MARIO ANDRETTI RACING SUIT parts from actual cars have gained traction as viable collectibles as well, giving collectors an opportunity to own literal pieces of automotive history. A Lowe’s racing hood autographed by Jimmie Johnson, Mike Early, Rick Hendrick and Chad Knaus brought nearly $2,600 last year, while a full, signed Jamie McMurray NASCAR body commanded almost $1,300. A piece of tire used by Jeff Gordon during his win May 1 win at Talladega in 2005 also commanded a healthy sale price at $885, and, most recently, at Kissimmee 2021, two pieces of tail panel used in races by Junior Johnson and wearing the Holly Farms Poultry livery sold for $236 and $177 apiece. Driver-worn, -used or -autographed pieces aren’t the only NASCAR START/FINISH LADDER AND CONTROL TOWER ones to bring in large sums of money, as sometimes a simple piece of the NASCAR magic is enough to get a collector’s adrenaline rushing as if they themselves are racing around the track at nearly 200 MPH. At last year’s Eddie Vannoy Collection auction, a NASCAR start and finish ladder paired with a control tower brought an astounding $15,930, and a Lowe’s Racing tin neon sign and 2004 Coca-Cola 600 trophy sold for $2,006 and $2,242, respectively. A table made from a Goodyear tire driven and signed by Steve Kinser sold for more than $1,000, while a lot of 12 collectible NASCAR knives sold for $1,400; a 1956 framed Daytona Beach print and an Indianapolis Motor Speedway banner each sold for $590; and selections of NASCAR Matchbox toys, model trucks and die-cast model cars have sold for hundreds and even thousands of dollars apiece. There’s no debating that there are drivers and race teams alike who have not only cemented their legacy in motorsports history, but who have also been elevated to a legendary status by fans of the sport. As those names and faces are tied to memorabilia over the years, the legends only continue to grow and gain more traction among fans, stoking their desire to bring bits and pieces of those legends into their own homes. A varied selection of collectibles make their way to the public market, with prices ranging from the relatively affordable to those that are several figures long, meaning that there’s something available for all levels of NASCAR enthusiasts. All one need do to lay claim to a piece of their own is place a bid and wait for the proverbial checkered flag—or in the case of an auction, the hammer—to drop. v LOWE’S AUTOGRAPHED HOOD MECUM.COM • 107
