Ex-Briggs Cunningham Maserati Tipo 61 “Birdcage” A Stellar Headliner in Scottsdale

Posted OCT 10 2013

Russo and Steele is thrilled to announce the early headline consignment of a historic Maserati Tipo 61 “Birdcage” sportsracer to the upcoming Scottsdale auctions in January. Famed engineer Giulio Alfieri’s magnum opus, the radical “Birdcage” was so-named after its prominent tubular-steel framework and returned the venerable ‘Trident’ to the winners circle from its first outing. Just 22 were built in all from 1959 to early 1961 along Tipo 60 and 61 variations, with the car operated almost exclusively by famous privateers. Today, it remains as highly coveted for its sheer beauty as its outstanding tally of victories.

Numbered 2459, this exceptional Tipo 61 “Birdcage” was built for American sporting legend Briggs Cunningham, race-prepped by Alfred Momo, and primarily driven by two-time SCCA Driver of the Year Walt Hansgen to three wins and a second-place podium finish during 1960. Star drivers for 1961 included Hansgen, Dick Thompson, and Augie Pabst, with one win plus third and fourth-place finishes for 1961. A high-speed crash with Pabst at Daytona ended its early racing career and years later, 2459 was resurrected under a noted Maserati collector with the frame based on original factory drawings and the restoration completed by noted UK expert Steve Hart. Completed in 2010 and complete with an official HTP, 2459 was most recently displayed at the Kuwait Concours d’Elegance in 2012. Purposefully beautiful, expertly rebuilt, and steeped in racing history with many of the greatest Americans in motorsport, this “Birdcage” is simply an outstanding find in every conceivable respect.

Following a great Las Vegas debut, we are now gearing up for our famous Scottsdale, Arizona auction. Scheduled for January 15th to the 19th, the event will continue to deliver our signature blend of exceptional automotive offerings, gala lifestyle events, and of course, our electrifying “auction in the round” experience.