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1950s Matchless G9 500cc / G12 650cc Valuation Report

Date: August 2025

Historical Overview

AMC’s 1950s Matchless twins delivered smooth British parallel-twin power with classic lines and solid engineering. The G9 (500 cc, 1948–58) set the template; the G12 (646 cc, 1958–59 for the 1950s decade) added torque and relaxed cruising. Today, UK buyers value originality, paperwork and the quality of any restoration. Sporting CSR variants can add interest, but prices still track condition first.

UK Valuation Summary (by condition and model)

Condition	G9 500cc (1948–58)	G12 650cc (1958–59)	Example External Source (non-link reference)
Project / Restoration Non-runner or incomplete; engine/gearbox overhaul and full cosmetic work likely.	£1,800 – £2,600	£2,300 – £3,000	Bonhams 1958 G9 project c.£1,955; H&H 1960 G12 “garage find” £2,475.
Roadworthy / Presentable Running, usable, largely original or older restoration; age-consistent wear.	£3,000 – £4,800	£3,000 – £4,200	H&H 1954 G9 £3,938; Manor Park 1959 G12 £3,795; H&H 1959 G12 £3,105.
Restored / Excellent High-quality restoration or exceptional original; matching numbers; correct parts.	£4,800 – £5,800	£3,800 – £4,800	Bonhams 1954 G9 £5,290; H&H 1961 G12 CSR £3,825; Bonhams G12 CSR notes.

Notes: Ranges reflect verified UK auction results from late-2023 to mid-2025 where available, with modest allowance for retail/private sale variance. G12s in like-for-like condition often edge G9s in rider categories, but the strongest restored G9s (esp. well-documented) can out-perform typical G12 results. CSR/sports trim can lift interest; paperwork and originality remain the biggest multipliers.

Value Influencing Factors

• Matching numbers & V5C: Correct frame/engine sequences and current registration add confidence and value.
• Originality & completeness: Correct tank/badges, mudguards, seat and exhaust; missing tinware or non-period finishes reduce prices.
• Restoration quality: Documented mechanical work and period-correct finishes outrank show-polish.
• Variant & spec: CSR/performance variants and documented UK history can command premiums.
• Market timing: Spring/summer usually brings the strongest outcomes; winter can soften rider/project prices.

Conclusion

In the current UK market, usable G9 machines typically achieve £3,000–£4,800, while G12 riders make around £3,000–£4,200. Well-restored G9s commonly reach £4,800–£5,800 and strong G12s £3,800–£4,800. Projects tend to sit near £1,800–£2,600 (G9) and £2,300–£3,000 (G12), depending on completeness and paperwork.

Sources (non-link references): Bonhams Motorcycle Sales (e.g., 1954 G9 £5,290; 1958 G9 project ~£1,955; G12 CSR ref. lots); H&H Classics (1954 G9 £3,938; 1959 G12 £3,105; 1960 G12 “garage find” £2,475; 1961 G12 CSR £3,825); Manor Park Classics (1959 G12 £3,795; 1960 G12 De Luxe £2,645); Car & Classic auctions (1955 G9 £4,400); Iconic Auctioneers (1953 G9 Super Clubman £2,875).

All Valuations