1916 Liberty Model 10-A Touring

The National Automobile Museum Auction|13 June 2026, 10:00 PDT|Reno, National Automobile Museum

1916 Liberty Model 10-A Touring
Chassis no. 31352
Engine no. 9W21189

230ci Continental L-Head Inline Six-Cylinder
Single Detroit Lubrication Updraft Carburetor
56bhp at 1,500rpm
3-Speed Manual Transmission
Live Rear Axle with Semi-Elliptical Leaf Springs
Rear-Wheel Drum Brakes

* Rarely seen, patriotic machine
* Stout, Continental power
* Nicely preserved and largely unrestored
* Once recommissioned, suitable for numerous tour events

THE LIBERTY

The Liberty automobile was produced in Detroit, Michigan, during the mid-teens, drawing its name from a patriotic spirit that pervaded American commercial life in the years leading up to and during the First World War. Powered by a Continental-built six-cylinder engine — an arrangement that placed it firmly in the upper tier of moderately priced touring cars — the Model 10-A offered its purchasers a well-appointed and capable machine suitable for both town and country use. The Rayfield updraft carburetor and Klaxon electric horn were considered refinements of the period, while the contracting band rear brakes reflect the engineering conventions of the day.

THE CAR OFFERED

The example offered here has been maintained in visually original condition, retaining much of its period character in an unrestored state. The red wood spoke wheels are a particularly evocative period detail, and the Smith Lens headlights and opening windshield further reinforce its authentic early-teens specification. The 32x4 tires are of mixed manufacture — Goodyear to the front, Firestone to the rear — and are noted as cracked with age, as one would expect of a car that has not been extensively campaigned in recent years.

The paint, while dull and carrying chips consistent with its age, is described as sound overall. The upholstery is noted as sound older material, and the top fits tightly. This is an honest, characterful survivor from the early years of American motoring, suitable for light touring and early brass-era events.

Footnotes

Titled under its engine number.

Additional information

This auction is now finished. If you are interested in consigning in future auctions, please contact the specialist department. If you have queries about lots purchased in this auction, please contact client services.
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The final bid (hammer) price of each lot will be subject to a buyer's premium.
For MOTORCAR property the premium is 12% of the final bid price.
Collection Notices
LOT COLLECTION DEADLINE: 12pm PDT on Monday, June 15, 2026
Motor Vehicle:
Uncollected Motor Vehicle Lots following the Collection Deadline will be uplifted and stored by Passport Auto Transport. Uplift and storage shall be at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Motor vehicle removal and storage charges will be charged by Passport Auto Transport according to its standard rates and ultimate destination of the vehicle(s). For applicable charges, please consult with Passport in advance of purchase.
Purchased lots become the buyer's risk once the hammer falls. Storage, collection, and uplift for paid and unpaid lot removal is at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Overseas buyers are strongly advised to make collection arrangements with Bonhams in advance of the auction. Buyers may have an authorised agent collect their purchases according to the collection deadline.
It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure that their designated agent has the auction venue details, bill of lading showing where the lot will be transported and proof of the buyer authorization for collection of the lot(s). Bonhams will release the lot only once all payment requirements have been met including payment of taxes and any applicable fees. Buyers and/or their agent are responsible for collecting all available parts, logbooks, title, keys and any other accompanying documents.
TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS
Representatives of Bonhams|Cars preferred carriers are available on site to provide shipping quotes and transport information.
Domestic Motorcar Transport:
Passport Auto Transport Contact:
Ed Watts, +1 (417) 588 4921 or mobile +1 (314) 496 6228 [email protected]
International Motorcar and Motorcycle Transport:
Schumacher Cargo Logistics Schumacher Secure
Contact: Warren Barnes, +1 (310) 626 7117
[email protected]
International Motorcar Transport:
CARS (Classic Automotive Relocation Services)
Contact: Denise Rodriguez, +1 (305) 849 9326
[email protected]
Payment Notices
Payment Deadline: 12pm PDT on Monday, June 15, 2026
Cashiering Hours:
Saturday, June 13, during the auction
Sunday, June 14, 8:30am to 5:30pm
Monday, June 15, 8:30am to 12pm
Shipping Notices
LOT COLLECTION DEADLINE: 12pm PDT on Monday, June 15, 2026
Motor Vehicle:
Uncollected Motor Vehicle Lots following the Collection Deadline will be uplifted and stored by Passport Auto Transport. Uplift and storage shall be at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Motor vehicle removal and storage charges will be charged by Passport Auto Transport according to its standard rates and ultimate destination of the vehicle(s). For applicable charges, please consult with Passport in advance of purchase.
Purchased lots become the buyer's risk once the hammer falls. Storage, collection, and uplift for paid and unpaid lot removal is at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Overseas buyers are strongly advised to make collection arrangements with Bonhams in advance of the auction. Buyers may have an authorised agent collect their purchases according to the collection deadline.
It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure that their designated agent has the auction venue details, bill of lading showing where the lot will be transported and proof of the buyer authorization for collection of the lot(s). Bonhams will release the lot only once all payment requirements have been met including payment of taxes and any applicable fees. Buyers and/or their agent are responsible for collecting all available parts, logbooks, title, keys and any other accompanying documents.
TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS
Representatives of Bonhams|Cars preferred carriers are available on site to provide shipping quotes and transport information.
Domestic Motorcar Transport:
Passport Auto Transport Contact:
Ed Watts, +1 (417) 588 4921 or mobile +1 (314) 496 6228 [email protected]
International Motorcar and Motorcycle Transport:
Schumacher Cargo Logistics Schumacher Secure
Contact: Warren Barnes, +1 (310) 626 7117
[email protected]
International Motorcar Transport:
CARS (Classic Automotive Relocation Services)
Contact: Denise Rodriguez, +1 (305) 849 9326
[email protected]

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