1942 Dodge WC56 G502 Command Car

This 1942 Dodge WC56 Command Car is in neat and complete condition, featuring a full set of canvas doors. Highlighted by a three-star general insignia, it playfully nods to General Patton’s famous command car. Well-maintained over the years and freshly serviced upon delivery; all you need to do is lower the top, start the engine, and drive into the sun.

Location
Deerlijk, Belgium
Year of construction
15 September 1942
Country of origin
United States of America
Manufacturer
Chrysler (Dodge Division)
Type
WC56 G502 Command Car
Condition
Older restoration but in good running condition
Starting bid
€ 2.500
Margin Goods
Yes margin goods; No VAT applicable

Details

Conditions

This Dodge WC56 Command Car was built on 15 September 1942. It was discovered in Paris, France, and was likely used by the French Army in the post-war years.

The engine was professionally overhauled by Mercedes-Benz in 1954, as indicated by the tag on the engine. All thought an older restoration, over the years the current owner has maintained the Dodge with regular yearly servicing and small repairs, ensuring that it remains in good mechanical condition. In preparation for its next chapter, a fresh maintenance service will be carried out before delivery to the new owner.

The Command Car presents itself in neat and complete condition. It is equipped with a full set of canvas doors, a nice feature that adds both practicality and originality. Hard to miss is the bold addition of a three-star general identification sign, proudly displayed on both the front and rear — a nod to General Patton’s personal command car. This unique detail makes the Dodge an instant conversation starter at any historic event or military vehicle gathering, setting it apart from the crowd of other Command Cars.

And if that still doesn’t get you noticed, you can always fire up the mounted siren to make sure everyone knows you’ve arrived.

Technical details

Manufacturer
Chrysler (Dodge Division)
Model
WC 56 G502 Command Car
Manufacturing date
15 September 1942
Chassis number
1TM19539
Length
13 ft 10 in (4,22 m)
Width
6 ft 7 in (2,00 m)
Height (top up)
6 ft 9 in (2,07 m)
Weight
5.335 lb (2.420 kg)
Max. speed
55 mph (89 km/h)
Operational range
240 mi (386 km)
Engine
Dodge T-214 92 hp (69 kW)
Crew
1 driver + 3 passengers
Production numbers
21.156
Road registration
Yes, Belgium

History

Note to buyer

LOT NUMBER

  • Each lot is assigned a specific lot number. This number is allocated one day before the lots are opened for bidding

  • Specific address details will be provided upon request and to the successful bidder/ Buyer.

VIEWING DAYS

  • Inspections during viewing days are on: Saturday June 21 2025. (The M36 Jackson 90mm Gun Motor Carriage can only be viewed on Sunday 22 June, 2025).

  • Participation in the viewing days is subject to specific conditions.

    Given the fact that these are often very special items whose condition, no matter how hard we try, cannot always be described 100% completely, we really recommend that you make use of this.

IMPORTANT DATES

  • Auction catalogue online: May 1st 2025 19.00 (CET)

  • Bidding starts: Saturday June 21 2025 18.00 (CET)

  • Bidding ends: Saturday June 28 2025 19.00 (CET)

Times:

  • Amsterdam NL (CET): 07:00 PM (19:00)

  • London: 08:00 PM (18:00)

  • New York USA: 13:00 AM (13:00)

  • Sydney AUS: 05:00 AM (05:00),next day

BUYER’S PREMIUM

  • On all lots a buyer’s premium of 16,5% of the hammer price is charged. Over this buyer’s premium a 21% sales tax (VAT) will be applicable.

VEHICLES & VEHICLE RELATED EQUIPMENT

  • Cars, motorcycles, trucks, cannons or howitzers, armored vehicles, and tanks are sold in as-is condition, with no technical guarantee and guarantee of authenticity and with or without registration.

ARMS & WEAPONS

  • The Auction House will not supply ANY item unless the correct paperwork and licensing – if needed – has been supplied by the Buyer in full.

  • If required and applicable (fire)arms can be made inoperable or permanently disabled by BAIV in The Netherlands as being a licensed Arms & Weapons Dealer Registration Nr. NL20191618779. In this case all relevant cost will be charged to the Buyer in addition and have to be paid in advance in full. Collection by appointment only.

MARGIN/ VAT

  • However, for most of the lots 21% sales tax (VAT) over the hammer price will be not applicable, it might be that in some specific cases sales tax (VAT) over the hammer price will be charged. In such a case this will be specifically specified in the lot description. For all other lots the margin scheme will be applicable. For more info see our General Conditions of Sale Article 9 on our website; www.tracksandtrade.com

IMPORT & EXPORT

  • Depending on the destination and content of the Lot the Buyer shall obtain an International Import Certificate / End User Certificate. Some of the items listed in the auction may require special licenses or permits or existing documents must be prepared for export. If this is relevant, Tracks & Trade will take care of this. The applicable costs will be charged to the successful bidder. Please email [email protected] if you have any questions or concerns. No item will be allowed to be collected without 100% of all legal requirements being fulfilled.

COLLECTION

  • The date and time of collection of purchased lots shall always be determined by mutual agreement between the buyer and the seller, and only after the full purchase amount has been received by the seller. If the buyer wishes to make extended use of the storage location—for instance, due to permit procedures—the seller may charge additional storage fees. The seller must communicate any such charges to the buyer in advance, allowing the buyer to seek alternative storage arrangements if preferred.

DELIVERY

  • The buyer is responsible for the transportation of the purchased goods, unless otherwise agreed. Tracks & Trade can assist with or arrange transportation at additional cost. Please contact us for more information.

  • Shipping, and packing costs and special costs that arise for loading special items, such as crane costs or costs for hiring special equipment etc., will be charged to the Buyer on the basis of actual costs + a surcharge of 10%. Naturally, you can count on us when it comes to the shipment of your purchases. We are happy to take care of that.

STORAGE

  • If you have any specific questions, please contact us either by telephone (+31 6 518 22 502) or E-mail ([email protected]). We are happy to help and support you through the entire process. We will do our utmost to please and comfort you. So, don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

GENERAL CONDITIONS

  • All information and transactions are subject to the general terms and conditions (Version 2.0 dated 29-04-2022). For more detailed information visit our website.

Shipping Information

After buying a classic military vehicle or other items such as cannons, planes, howitzers and tanks, there are several steps you would typically need to take:

 

  • Legalities

    In principle, no special permit is required for unarmored wheeled and tracked vehicles. In many cases, an export procedure that is comparable to that for exporting classic cars and motorcycles is sufficient. Military collectables older than 75 years and with a value over Euro 50k are often considered National Heritage. In such cases an export permit must be requested from the National Ministry of Culture of the exporting country. Tanks, howitzers and self-propelled or towed cannons often require specific permits that are highly dependent on the country of shipment and the country of destination. In such a case first ensure that you apply for the necessary permits, licenses, and other paperwork required to own and operate such an item in your jurisdiction. This may involve registering the item with the appropriate authorities and complying with any regulations regarding its ownership and use. In such a case it is advisable to contact us in advance because we have many decades of experience in the import and export of Classic Military Heritage. Based on this experience, we can generally quickly provide feedback on what applies to you. This is especially relevant because regulations in this regard change every now and then and sometimes, we also have to deal with export-restrictions. In short: if you want to be sure, contact us in time to avoid difficulties in a later stage.

  • Storage

    Find a suitable storage location for your collectable, preferably a secure and legal place where you can keep it when not in use. This could be a garage, warehouse, or even a specially designed storage facility or museum.

  • Transportation

    After you have all paperwork in place next step will be the (oversees) transport to your desired location. This may involve hiring specialized transport and broker services due to permits, size and weight. Als in this case we can support you with organizing the transport or make sure you get in contact with some experts.

  • Maintenance and Restoration

    Depending on the condition of your military collectable our partner BAIV can help you with maintenance and restoration work to ensure that it is safe and operational. This could involve relatively easy maintenance and repair,  service till a Class-A restoration. In such a case please contact BAIV (link to BAIV website).

  • Training

    If you intend to operate a vehicle then make sure you have manuals that describe how the operate vehicle. Nowadays there are numerous reprints available on the Internet that explain you in a playful way how to drive and operate your vehicle. This is often a team effort, which makes owning such a vehicle extra attractive. If required, you can also involve hiring a professional instructor or attending specialized training courses to learn how to drive and maintain it safely. In such a case, our partner BAIV can also support you.

  • Insurance

    Consider obtaining insurance coverage for your vehicle to protect yourself against any potential accidents or liabilities that may arise from owning and operating it. Often there are specialized insurance companies offering these kinds of services. Local military vehicle clubs often also know their way around the specific options offered by insurance companies.

  • Enjoyment

    Finally, once everything is in place, you can enjoy owning and, if permitted, operating your classic military vehicle, cannon or howitzer. Whether it's for display purposes or for participating in historical reenactments, owning such a great unit can be a unique and rewarding experience.

Feel free to get in touch

Ivo Rigter Sr.

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