James Bond’s Aston Martin DB5 to be Auctioned

By Craig Taylor

June 2, 2010

One of the most recognized cultural icons of the 20th century will be auctioned for the first time in history at the annual Automobiles of London event next October.

The 1964 Aston Martin DB5 as driven by Sean Connery in Goldfinger and Thunderball is expected to go for over $5 million.

With its interesting modifications originally conceived by Oscar-award winning special effects expert, John Stear, the Bond DB5 is factory-fitted with the full complement of operational “Q-Branch” gadgets, including machine guns, bullet-proof shield, revolving number plates, oil slick sprayer and more—all controlled from factory installed toggles and switches hidden in the center arm-rest.

The DB5 was originally loaned to EON Productions for the filming of the two Bond movies, and returned to the Aston Martin Lagonda factory after a promotional tour. An American radio broadcaster named Jerry Lee later convinced the factory to sell it to him for $12,000 in 1969. Lee became the first and only owner of the DB5, which has remained in his possession and has rarely been seen by the general public.

“The James Bond car has brought me much enjoyment for some 40 years,” said Jerry Lee. “Even as I sell it and use the proceeds to fund the Jerry Lee Foundation, the car will continue to give me great pleasure as it furthers the mission of the Foundation to do good around the world.”

Prior to its auction debut, the DB5 will make an appearance at the Bond-themed Midsummer Classic/Thunderball concours and black-tie reception on June 26th at the Stone Park Club outside of London. Bond fans will recognize the park as the site for the first confrontation between 007 and his archenemy, Goldfinger.