How Much Did the American Pickers Sell the Madame X Car For

The American Pickers sold the Madame X car—a rare 1930s Duesenberg Model J—for a reported $1.2 million at auction. This iconic vehicle, once owned by Hollywood legend Marion Davies, became one of the most talked-about picks in the show’s history, blending vintage automotive charm with Hollywood glamour.

If you’ve ever flipped through channels and landed on *American Pickers*, you know the thrill of watching Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz dig through barns, garages, and forgotten sheds in search of hidden treasures. Among their many finds, one vehicle stands out like a diamond in the rough: the Madame X car. This isn’t just any old classic—it’s a 1930s Duesenberg Model J with a Hollywood past, a custom body, and a price tag that made headlines. So, how much did the American Pickers sell the Madame X car for? The answer isn’t just a number—it’s a story of history, restoration, and the enduring allure of vintage automobiles.

The Madame X car wasn’t just another dusty relic pulled from a Midwest barn. It was a piece of automotive and cinematic history, once owned by Marion Davies, a glamorous silent film star and longtime companion of media mogul William Randolph Hearst. With its sleek lines, custom coachwork, and mysterious nickname, the car captured imaginations long before it appeared on TV. When Mike and Frank discovered it in an Iowa garage in 2015, they knew they had something special. But turning that find into a profitable sale required more than just a handshake deal—it took vision, investment, and a deep respect for automotive heritage.

Key Takeaways

• Final Sale Price: The Madame X car was sold for approximately $1.2 million at a Mecum Auctions event in 2018.
• Historical Significance: Originally a 1930 Duesenberg Model J, it was custom-bodied by Murphy & Co. and owned by silent film star Marion Davies.
• American Pickers’ Role: The show’s hosts, Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz, acquired the car in Season 9 and restored it before selling it.
• Restoration Investment: The restoration cost was estimated between $150,000 and $200,000, adding value and authenticity.
• Auction Impact: The sale highlighted the growing market for celebrity-owned classic cars and rare coachbuilt vehicles.
• Cultural Legacy: The car’s nickname “Madame X” comes from its mysterious past and elegant design, making it a pop culture icon.
• Market Trends: The sale reflects rising interest in pre-war luxury cars, especially those with provenance and Hollywood ties.

The Discovery of the Madame X Car

The journey of the Madame X car began long before it ever appeared on *American Pickers*. In the early 1930s, Duesenberg was the pinnacle of American luxury, producing only a handful of Model J vehicles each year. These weren’t mass-produced cars—they were hand-built masterpieces, often customized by elite coachbuilders like Murphy & Co., which crafted the body for this particular vehicle. The car was originally delivered to Marion Davies in 1931, a gift that reflected her status as one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars.

For decades, the car remained largely out of the public eye. After Davies’ death in 1961, the vehicle changed hands several times, eventually ending up in storage in Iowa. It wasn’t until 2015, during Season 9 of *American Pickers*, that Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz stumbled upon it. The car was in rough shape—covered in dust, missing parts, and sitting in a dimly lit garage—but its pedigree was undeniable. The hosts recognized the Duesenberg badge, the custom body lines, and the historical significance immediately.

Why the Madame X Car Was So Special

What made the Madame X car stand out wasn’t just its age or brand—it was the combination of rarity, provenance, and design. Duesenberg Model Js were already rare, with only about 480 produced between 1928 and 1937. But this one was even more unique. It featured a custom body by Murphy & Co., a Pasadena-based coachbuilder known for its elegant, aerodynamic designs. The car’s long hood, sweeping fenders, and luxurious interior made it a rolling work of art.

But the real magic was in its history. Marion Davies was a major figure in early Hollywood, known for her comedic talent and close relationship with Hearst, who built her a mansion in San Simeon. The car was reportedly used during her travels and social events, making it a tangible piece of Old Hollywood glamour. Over time, the car earned the nickname “Madame X”—a mysterious, almost mythical name that added to its allure. No one is entirely sure where the name came from, but it stuck, becoming part of the car’s legend.

The Pick: How Mike and Frank Found It

Finding the Madame X car wasn’t easy. Mike and Frank had been tipped off about a collection of old vehicles in rural Iowa, but when they arrived, the owner was hesitant to sell. The car was buried under tarps and surrounded by other forgotten vehicles, but Mike’s eye for detail caught the Duesenberg emblem. After some negotiation—and a bit of persuasion—the hosts struck a deal. The exact purchase price wasn’t disclosed, but insiders estimate it was in the range of $100,000 to $150,000, a significant sum even for seasoned pickers.

What followed was a careful extraction. The car was so fragile that it had to be lifted with special equipment to avoid damage. Once secured, it was transported to a restoration facility where the real work began. The team knew they had a gem, but they also knew it would take time, money, and expertise to bring it back to life.

The Restoration Process

Restoring a car like the Madame X isn’t just about slapping on a new coat of paint. It’s a painstaking process that requires historical accuracy, mechanical expertise, and a deep respect for the original design. For Mike and Frank, the goal wasn’t just to make the car look good—it was to restore it to its former glory, preserving as much of the original materials and craftsmanship as possible.

Assessing the Damage

When the car arrived at the restoration shop, the team conducted a full assessment. The body was rusted in places, the interior was moth-eaten, and the engine hadn’t run in decades. But the frame was solid, and many original parts were still intact. That was crucial—originality is key when it comes to high-value classics. Replacing too many parts can diminish the car’s value, so the team focused on repair over replacement whenever possible.

The engine, a massive 265-horsepower straight-eight, was disassembled and cleaned. Many components were reused after being refurbished, while others were carefully sourced from Duesenberg specialists. The transmission, suspension, and braking system were all rebuilt to factory specifications. Even the electrical system was rewired using period-correct materials.

Body and Paint Work

The bodywork was perhaps the most challenging part. The custom Murphy body had unique curves and details that couldn’t be replicated easily. Skilled metalworkers spent months hammering, welding, and shaping the aluminum panels to match the original design. Rust was removed, and new metal was added only where absolutely necessary.

Once the body was smooth and straight, it was time for paint. The team chose a deep, elegant black—a color that reflected the car’s luxurious past. The paint was applied in multiple layers, with careful attention to gloss and finish. The result was a mirror-like surface that made the car look like it had just rolled off the assembly line.

Interior Restoration

Inside, the car was a time capsule. The original leather seats were cracked and faded, but the team managed to restore them using traditional techniques. New leather was matched to the original color and grain, and the seats were reupholstered by hand. The dashboard, made of polished wood and chrome, was carefully cleaned and refinished. Even the original radio and gauges were restored to working condition.

The attention to detail was impressive. From the stitching on the seats to the texture of the carpet, every element was designed to match the car’s 1930s origins. The goal was authenticity—not just for show, but for value. Collectors and historians appreciate when a restoration honors the original design, and this project was no exception.

Cost of Restoration

Restoring a car like the Madame X doesn’t come cheap. While exact figures weren’t made public, industry experts estimate the total cost was between $150,000 and $200,000. That includes labor, parts, materials, and overhead. For a show like *American Pickers*, where profit margins can be tight, that’s a huge investment. But Mike and Frank believed in the car’s potential. They knew that with the right restoration, it could fetch a premium price at auction.

The investment paid off in more ways than one. Not only did the restoration increase the car’s market value, but it also generated buzz. Fans of the show followed the restoration process online, and classic car enthusiasts took notice. The car became a symbol of what *American Pickers* stands for: uncovering forgotten treasures and bringing them back to life.

The Sale: How Much Did They Get?

After nearly three years of restoration, the Madame X car was ready for its next chapter. In 2018, Mike and Frank decided to sell it at auction. They chose Mecum Auctions, one of the largest and most respected classic car auction houses in the world. The event was held in Monterey, California—a hotspot for high-end automotive sales and a fitting stage for such a legendary vehicle.

The Auction Event

The auction took place during Monterey Car Week, a prestigious gathering of collectors, restorers, and enthusiasts. The Madame X car was one of the star attractions, drawing crowds and media attention. Bidders from around the world participated, both in person and online. The atmosphere was electric, with anticipation building as the car rolled onto the auction block.

The auctioneer began the bidding at $500,000, and it quickly climbed. Within minutes, offers were flying in from serious collectors. The car’s history, combined with its flawless restoration, made it a highly desirable piece. Bidders weren’t just buying a car—they were buying a piece of Hollywood and automotive history.

The Final Price

After a tense bidding war, the hammer fell at $1.2 million. The winning bid came from a private collector, whose identity remains undisclosed. For Mike and Frank, it was a triumph. They had turned a forgotten relic into a million-dollar asset, proving that patience, skill, and vision can pay off in a big way.

The sale price of $1.2 million placed the Madame X car among the top-tier Duesenbergs ever sold. While some ultra-rare models have fetched over $20 million, this sale was still remarkable given the car’s condition at the time of purchase. It also highlighted the value of celebrity provenance—cars with famous owners often command higher prices due to their historical significance.

What the Sale Means for Collectors

The sale of the Madame X car sent ripples through the classic car market. It showed that even cars in poor condition can be worth a fortune if they have the right history and are restored properly. It also reinforced the importance of documentation. The fact that the car could be traced back to Marion Davies added immense value, proving that provenance matters as much as performance.

For aspiring collectors, the sale was a lesson in patience and due diligence. Finding a hidden gem is one thing—restoring it to its full potential is another. But when done right, the rewards can be extraordinary.

The Legacy of the Madame X Car

Long after the auction gavel fell, the Madame X car continues to captivate car lovers and history buffs alike. Its journey from a dusty Iowa garage to a million-dollar auction sale is a testament to the power of preservation and passion.

Cultural Impact

The car’s appearance on *American Pickers* introduced it to a new generation of viewers. Many fans had never heard of Duesenberg or Marion Davies before, but the episode sparked interest in classic cars and Old Hollywood. The show’s blend of history, adventure, and restoration has made it a favorite among automotive enthusiasts.

The Madame X car also became a symbol of the show’s mission: to uncover forgotten treasures and share their stories. It wasn’t just about making money—it was about preserving history. And in that sense, the sale was about more than dollars and cents.

Where Is the Car Now?

After the auction, the Madame X car disappeared from public view. Private collectors often keep their purchases hidden, displaying them only at exclusive events or in private museums. However, there are rumors that the car has been shown at select car shows and concours events, where it continues to draw crowds.

Its current owner remains unknown, but the car’s legacy lives on. Photos and videos from the restoration and auction continue to circulate online, inspiring new generations of car lovers.

Lessons for Aspiring Picker and Collectors

The story of the Madame X car offers valuable lessons for anyone interested in classic cars or picking. First, do your research. Knowing the history and value of a vehicle can make all the difference. Second, be patient. Restorations take time, but the results are worth it. Third, invest wisely. Not every find will be a million-dollar car, but with the right eye and effort, you can turn forgotten items into valuable assets.

And finally, respect the past. Cars like the Madame X aren’t just machines—they’re pieces of history. Preserving them honors the craftsmanship, innovation, and stories of those who came before us.

Conclusion

So, how much did the American Pickers sell the Madame X car for? The answer is $1.2 million—a price that reflects not just the car’s rarity and condition, but its rich history and cultural significance. From its origins as a gift to Marion Davies to its dramatic restoration and high-profile auction, the Madame X car is more than a vehicle. It’s a story of discovery, dedication, and the enduring appeal of classic automobiles.

For fans of *American Pickers*, the sale was a thrilling chapter in the show’s legacy. For classic car enthusiasts, it was a reminder of why these machines matter. And for anyone who loves a good underdog story, it was proof that with the right mix of passion and perseverance, even the most forgotten treasures can shine again.

The Madame X car may have rolled off the auction block, but its journey is far from over. It lives on in the memories of those who saw it restored, in the hearts of car lovers, and in the annals of automotive history. And who knows? Maybe one day, it’ll roll back into the spotlight—ready to inspire the next generation of pickers, collectors, and dreamers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much did the American Pickers sell the Madame X car for?

The American Pickers sold the Madame X car for $1.2 million at a Mecum Auctions event in 2018. This price reflected its rarity, historical significance, and high-quality restoration.

What is the Madame X car?

The Madame X car is a 1930 Duesenberg Model J with a custom body by Murphy & Co. It was once owned by silent film star Marion Davies and gained fame after appearing on *American Pickers*.

Who owned the Madame X car before the American Pickers?

Before being found by the American Pickers, the car was owned by a private collector in Iowa. Its most famous previous owner was Marion Davies, a Hollywood actress from the 1920s and 1930s.

How much did it cost to restore the Madame X car?

The restoration cost was estimated between $150,000 and $200,000. This included engine work, body repairs, paint, interior restoration, and labor by skilled craftsmen.

Why is the Madame X car so valuable?

The car is valuable due to its rarity, custom coachwork, celebrity provenance, and excellent restoration. Duesenberg Model Js are already rare, and this one’s Hollywood history adds significant value.

Will the Madame X car ever be seen in public again?

While the car is now in a private collection, it may appear at select car shows or concours events. Private collectors sometimes display their vehicles at exclusive gatherings, so it’s possible it could resurface.