Mercury Monterey
Positioned between Ford and Lincoln, the full-size Mercury Monterey offered buyers a stylish step up from its corporate siblings. Today, it's known as an affordable entry point for collectors wanting a classic American car from the '50s and '60s.
Mercury Monterey sold for a median of $15,750 over the last 12 months, based on 26 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $8,075 and $23,638. 171 currently for sale.
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Seen across 6 sites in the last 30 days.
Mercury Monterey prices by year
| Year | Median (3 yrs) | Middle 50% | Sales (3 yrs) | For sale now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1950 | $25k | $18k–$30k | 4 | 7 |
| 1951 | $22k | $21k–$39k | 4 | 3 |
| 1952 | $15k | – | 1 | 2 |
| 1953 | $21k | $11k–$29k | 12 | 36 |
| 1954 | $23k | $16k–$28k | 16 | 31 |
| 1955 | $18k | $9.3k–$30k | 8 | 3 |
| 1956 | $10k | – | 3 | 15 |
| 1957 | $12k | $6.5k–$22k | 5 | 7 |
| 1958 | – | – | 0 | 0 |
| 1959 | $55k | – | 1 | 2 |
| 1960 | $8.8k | – | 1 | 0 |
| 1961 | – | – | 0 | 1 |
| 1962 | $20k | – | 3 | 1 |
| 1963 | $7.3k | $5.8k–$15k | 8 | 19 |
| 1964 | $25k | – | 1 | 9 |
| 1965 | – | – | 0 | 1 |
| 1966 | $10k | – | 3 | 10 |
| 1967 | $14k | – | 3 | 2 |
| 1968 | $20k | – | 3 | 10 |
| 1969 | $6.9k | – | 1 | 1 |
| 1970 | – | – | 0 | 0 |
| 2004 | – | – | 0 | 5 |
Auction sales in the last 3 years; prices leave out salvage and other branded titles.
Listings
The Mercury Monterey began as a high-end trim in 1950 before becoming a standalone full-size model in 1952. Positioned between Ford and Lincoln, it offered buyers a step up in style and features throughout its production run, which ended in 1974. The Monterey mirrored the dramatic styling changes of its era, from the two-tone paint and chrome of the 1950s to the sharp, slab-sided designs of the 1960s.
Collectors appreciate the Monterey as a more affordable entry point into classic 1950s and 60s American metal. Its shared DNA with Ford models means mechanical parts are often easy to source. The most desirable examples are convertibles and pillarless hardtops from the mid-1950s, particularly those with a V8 engine and plenty of optional extras.
The current market for the Monterey is broad and accessible. With an average sale price around $16,000, it's a great option for enthusiasts looking for a weekend cruiser. While perfectly restored convertibles command the highest prices, solid drivers and restorable projects are plentiful and offer significant value compared to more famous contemporaries.
Buying Tips
- Rust is the primary concern. Thoroughly inspect the frame, floor pans, trunk floor, and the bottoms of fenders and doors.
- Check for complete chrome and stainless steel trim. Sourcing missing pieces for these cars can be difficult and expensive.
- The Y-block and FE series V8s are durable, but check for signs of overheating, oil leaks, and excessive smoke. Ensure the transmission shifts correctly.
- Electrical systems can be finicky. Test all gauges, lights, and power accessories like windows or a convertible top.
Prices for the Mercury Monterey range from $900 for projects to $48,000 for top-spec restored examples.
1,095 Mercury Monterey vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 171 currently live.
Data sourced from auction results and dealer and private listings, including Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Mecum, RM Sotheby’s and eBay Motors. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Mercury Monterey cost?
Over the last 12 months, Mercury Monterey sold for a median of $15,750 across 26 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $8,075 and $23,638. There are 171 currently for sale.
How many Mercury Monterey listings are for sale right now?
There are 171 Mercury Monterey listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.