Hidden Forest Car Collection: $100 Million Discovery

2025-06-15 20:29:00

Hidden Treasure: A North carolina Car Collection

An enormous collection of classic cars, including a Lincoln from “the Godfather,” is stashed deep in the North carolina forests, sparking a car enthusiast’s dream.

• A collection of over 100 cars, perhaps worth SEK 100 million, is hidden in North Carolina.
• The collection includes rare models like dodge Charger Daytonas, Plymouth Superbirds, and a Corvette 427.
• A Lincoln Continental from “The Godfather” with bullet holes is also part of the collection.

What if a treasure trove of classic cars, worth millions, was hidden in plain sight? That’s precisely what car enthusiast Tom Cotter discovered deep within the forests of North Carolina. Cotter, known for unearthing amazing barn finds, stumbled upon an unusual collection of over 100 cars, potentially valued at SEK 100 million.

cotter, who has been finding cars since he was 12, recently released his book, “Secrets of the Barn Find Hunter.” He’s also a YouTube star with his series, “The Barn Find Hunter,” showcasing unique car finds in unexpected places.

did you know?-Tom Cotter’s “The Barn Find Hunter” series showcases not only the cars themselves, but also the stories behind them, frequently enough revealing the unique histories and personal connections associated with these forgotten vehicles.

The collection, unknown until Cotter’s visit, is the passion project of Billy Eubanks. He acquired the cars during the oil crisis of the 1970s when many sought-after vehicles were available at lower prices.

Rare Cars and Movie Stars

Eubanks’ collection includes a variety of unique vehicles. Some cars were restored to their original condition, while others have aged back into needing restoration. Eubanks’ motivation wasn’t about the financial value but his love for the cars.

Reader question:-If you stumbled upon a similar collection of classic cars, would you prioritize restoring them to their original condition, or would you preserve them in their current state as ancient artifacts?

Among the gems are several Dodge Charger Daytonas and Plymouth Superbirds. These cars, manufactured in limited numbers, were known for their speed. Some were capable of over 300 km/h in the 70s, boasting 426 Hemi-V8 engines with up to 600 horsepower.

One of the most unique finds is the 43rd Plymouth Roadrunner manufactured, bearing the same number as used by racing driver Richard Petty. This particular car is estimated to be worth over SEK 2 million.

This Lincoln was in a famous murder scene in the movie Godfather.

Adding a touch of Hollywood glamour, a 1941 Lincoln Continental from “The Godfather” is part of the collection. The car, with visible bullet holes, was used in the movie’s infamous murder scene.

Numerous Corvettes are also part of this extraordinary collection, including a rare 1968 Corvette 427 with a powerful engine and a 1980 Corvette, nearly new and only driven 15 km.

A chevrolet corvette that whent 15 km.

The car owner’s favorite is a Jaguar XK120, entirely in its original condition. Its short rear and long hood create an aesthetic that enhances its overall design.

The most impressive car may be the 1959 Cadillac Eldorado biarritz. Its excellent condition could make it worth SEK 2.7 million.

Beyond the Barn Find: The Art and Value of Classic Car Preservation

The discovery of Billy Eubanks’ hidden collection,as unearthed by Tom Cotter,prompts fascinating questions about the best way to handle such a remarkable find. While the “barn find” aesthetic-patina, dust, and all-holds undeniable appeal, the value of these vehicles necessitates careful consideration beyond mere aesthetics. WhatS the best approach when preserving a collection of this scale?

The debate often revolves around restoration versus preservation, a fascinating balancing act for classic car owners and collectors. Restoration involves returning a car to it’s original factory condition, potentially boosting its value and ancient accuracy. Conversely, preservation emphasizes maintaining the car’s current state, embracing its history through the visible signs of age.

The primary goal of restoration centers on authenticity. this can involve meticulous research to find original parts, matching paint colors, and ensuring every detail aligns with the car’s production specifications. For cars like the Dodge Charger Daytonas and Plymouth Superbirds mentioned in Eubanks’ collection, a full restoration could considerably increase their value, especially if they boast matching-numbers engines and are in impeccable condition, as these cars are quite rare.Though, such thorough restorations can be incredibly costly, frequently enough exceeding the vehicle’s ultimate market value.

preservation, conversely, prioritizes retaining the car’s originality. The goal isn’t necessarily to make it look new, but to stabilize the current condition, preventing further deterioration while keeping the car as it is. This approach often focuses on gentle cleaning, rust treatment, and mechanical upkeep to ensure the car remains operational and structurally sound. Consider the Lincoln Continental from “The Godfather”: the bullet holes are part of its history. Protecting the car in its movie-used condition becomes a key part of its value to collectors.

Preservation vs. restoration: A Closer Look

Here’s a comparison of the main approaches, expanding on the “Reader Question” about the best approach:

• Restoration:
  • Focus: Returning the car to its original factory condition.
  • process: Extensive disassembly, parts sourcing, and often a complete rebuild.
  • Pros: Maximizes potential value, enhances historical accuracy, and offers a like-new driving experience.
  • Cons: Can be very expensive,time-consuming,and may sacrifice original components.
• Preservation:
  • Focus: Maintaining the car in its current condition while preventing further deterioration.
  • Process: Cleaning, stabilization, and mechanical upkeep to ensure function and safety.
  • Pros: Retains originality, may be less costly, and preserves the historical “story” of the car.
  • Cons: May not maximize value compared to restoration, and the car will continue to show its age.

The choice hinges on several factors. The rarity of the model plays a meaningful role,along with the car’s overall condition,and,of course,the owner’s personal preferences. The 1980 Corvette in Eubanks’ collection, nearly new with only 15 km on the odometer, might be worth more if preserved rather than restored, highlighting its original condition and value. But the rare 1968 Corvette 427, with its powerful engine, might benefit from a sympathetic restoration to show off its mechanical beauty.

Ultimately, the optimal strategy depends on a careful evaluation of each car’s unique characteristics and heritage. should you discover a classic car collection, decide whether restoration or preservation best honors each car’s individual story. The goal is to ensure these automotive treasures endure for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about classic car preservation and restoration:

Is it always better to restore a classic car? Not necessarily. While restoration can increase value, preservation can be more appropriate, especially for cars with significant historical provenance or low original mileage.

How do you decide whether to restore or preserve a car? Consider the car’s rarity,condition,and the owner’s goals. Factor in a car’s historical importance, originality, and the ultimate budget.

What’s the best way to maintain a preserved car? Focus on regular cleaning, protecting it from the elements, and addressing any mechanical issues to prevent further deterioration without altering its original appearance.

where can I find parts for a classic car restoration? There are several resources, including specialist suppliers, online marketplaces, and car clubs, all useful in sourcing hard-to-find parts.