Lot 1387: Outstanding World War II U.S. M5A1 Stuart Light Tank

The M5A1 Stuart light tank is the much improved version of the M5. Nearly 9,000 M5/M5A1s were manufactured by American Car & Foundry, Cadillac, and Massey Harris from 1941 to 1944. The twin Cadillac V8 engines on hydramatic transmissions gave the lightly armored and small gunned Stuart great speed and maneuverability, which made for a good cavalry and reconnaissance tank. The Stuart was battle tested in Tunisia, Sicily, Italy, France and Germany and eventually the Pacific towards the end of WWII. There were several variants of the M5A1 designed to meet specific needs during WWII, including the flame-thrower “Zippo” version intended for the Pacific Theater. Surviving Stuarts found long post-war careers with many foreign nations, some lasting in arsenals until the early 1990s. Today, Stuarts on the open market are rarely available. This Stuart has an April 15, 1943 date of delivery, a WWII USMC paint scheme, and affectionately named "Margaret." It comes with pioneer tools, tow cable, two dummy Browning M1919A4 type machine guns, gyro stabilizer, gunner sight, rare turret ready rack, full set of grousers, set of track jacks, two spare road wheel tires, and driver's windshield. It came out of Portugal circa 1980-90s. Consignor research is included.

Very good overall. It starts and moves well. The paint and metal work are very well taken care of. It has new track and very good road wheels. The seat backs are good. Engine air cleaner modified to use cylindrical air canisters. The main gun barrel is good with a false breech ring. A very appealing example for your vehicle collection.