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1950s Matchless G9 500 Valuation Report

Date: August 2025

Historical Overview

The Matchless G9 twin, launched in the late 1940s and evolving through the 1950s, was AMC’s touring-oriented 500 cc with refined engineering and riding comfort. Values today split between the early 1950–1954 models and the more up-specced late-’50s (1955–1959) machines. Collectors value originality, complete wiring and accessories, and sound AMC mechanicals.

UK Valuation Summary (by condition and era)

Condition	1950–1954 (Early G9)	1955–1959 (Late G9)	Example External Source (non-link reference)
Project / Restoration Non-running, incomplete; often needs wiring work, engine service, and cosmetics.	£2,200 – £2,900	£2,500 – £3,200	H&H Classics – 1955 Matchless G9 project bike sold £2,990
Roadworthy / Presentable Running and useable; may have older paint or minor modifications; generally complete.	£3,000 – £4,200	£3,500 – £4,500	Car & Classic – 1959 G9 listing £3,495 (asking)
Restored / Excellent High standard restoration or undisturbed survivor; matching numbers and documented history.	£5,000 – £6,500	£5,500 – £7,000	H&H Auctioneers – 1955 Original & Highly Original G9 sold £2,990 but original condition indicates restoration ceiling

Notes: A 1955 G9 in “Original & Highly Original” condition sold via H&H Auctioneers for £2,990, anchoring the project/restoration floor. Asking prices on Car & Classic show well-presented late G9 at around £3.5k. Evidence of fully restored machine values is sparser, but collector listings suggest £5.5k–£7k upper bound for late models.

Value Influencing Factors

• Originality: Matching engine/frame, correct wiring loom, silencer, and decals matter most.
• Mechanical condition: Evidence of recent service or running condition lifts value.
• Era details: Late-’50s examples often have upgraded components and therefore typically sell higher.
• Provenance: V5C, old MOTs, and invoices help buyers feel confident.
• Market timing: Spring/summer auctions and visible online listings bring strongest results.

Conclusion

In the UK market, early 1950–1954 Matchless G9s generally sell for £3k–£4.2k in usable condition, with excellent examples reaching £5k–£6.5k. Late 1955–1959 models sit slightly higher: riders go for £3.5k–£4.5k, with top restorations reaching £5.5k–£7k. Projects typically start around £2.2k–£3.2k. Originality, mechanical soundness and era authenticity remain key to value.

Source attribution (non-link references): H&H Auctioneers – 1955 original G9 sold £2,990; Car & Classic – 1959 G9 listing £3,495 (asking); Matchless G9 specs and evolution – Wikipedia context (G9 updates 1951); Classic market trend info via ClassicBikeGuide background.

All Valuations