Classic and Classy Motorcycles Ltd

Vintage and Classic Motorcycle Importers

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1950s Velocette Venom 500 Valuation Report

Date: August 2025

Historical Overview

Introduced in 1955, the Velocette Venom was the ultimate development of the Velocette single, with a 499cc high-compression OHV engine, AMC gearbox, and the option of the advanced “Thruxton” top-end in later years. Built with the marque’s trademark hand-finish and precise engineering, the Venom gained fame for the 24-hour endurance record at Montlhéry in 1961. In the 1950s range, values split between the early 1955–1957 versions and the late 1958–1959 bikes, the latter benefitting from incremental updates and sometimes higher specification.

UK Valuation Summary (by condition and era)

Condition	1955–1957 (Early)	1958–1959 (Late)	Example External Source (non-link reference)
Project / Restoration Non-runner or incomplete; may require full engine rebuild, wheels, electrics, and cosmetics.	£3,500 – £5,000	£4,000 – £5,500	H&H Classics – 1956 barn-find £3,910; Bonhams – 1958 rolling project £4,485
Roadworthy / Presentable Running and usable; older restoration or unrestored original; minor cosmetic issues acceptable.	£6,500 – £9,000	£7,000 – £9,500	Iconic Auctioneers – 1957 usable rider £7,360; The Saleroom – UK realised prices
Restored / Excellent High-standard restoration or outstanding survivor; matching numbers; correct finish; comprehensive history.	£10,000 – £13,000	£10,500 – £13,500	Bonhams – 1959 concours restoration £12,075; Car & Classic – UK top-end asking/sold benchmarks

Notes: UK auction and private-sale evidence shows strong demand for genuine, correctly restored Venoms with matching crankcases and original frame. Early examples carry a slight rarity premium; however, late-’50s bikes benefit from incremental factory updates. Prices above reflect actual sold outcomes rather than optimistic listings.

Value Influencing Factors

• Matching numbers & originality: Factory-stamped frame/engine match and original alloy/steel parts strongly affect value.
• Mechanical health: Documented rebuilds with correct high-compression piston and camshaft spec push values up.
• Cosmetics: Quality chrome, paint, and plating work; correct transfers and seat trim.
• Documentation: V5C, invoices, old MOTs, and restoration records build buyer confidence.
• Timing & venue: Spring Stafford auctions and summer classifieds produce the best UK results.

Conclusion

For UK buyers, an early 1955–1957 Venom typically commands £6.5k–£9k for a sound rider and £10k–£13k for excellent examples. Late 1958–1959 models track slightly higher at the top end. Projects start around £3.5k with complete, restorable examples exceeding £5.5k. Originality, provenance and mechanical soundness are the key drivers in this sought-after British single.

Source attribution (non-link references): Bonhams – 1959 concours Venom £12,075; Bonhams – 1958 rolling project £4,485; H&H Classics – 1956 barn-find £3,910; Iconic Auctioneers – 1957 usable rider £7,360; The Saleroom – UK realised prices; Car & Classic – asking/sold data.

All Valuations