In Brief:

• Probably the best Mk 1 Mini Van available for sale
• Finished in Whitehall Beige over a Tan leather interior
• Just 2 owner's - original keeper from 1965-2017
• Mostly original with only perishable parts replaced
• One must view to totally appreciate the specialty of this example

Auctioneer’s Notes:

A truly exceptional example of a highly sought-after Mk I Morris Mini Van 850, finished in its original Whitehall Beige over a Tan leather interior. Supplied new in 1960, this remarkable Mini Van has had just one former keeper, who owned the vehicle from new until 2017. It has only recently been registered in The Vendor’s name in 2026. Bought new by its first owner, the vehicle was specified with a Restall rear seat conversion and factory reversing light from new. It was used and serviced up until around 20,000 miles in 1975, at which point the original owner sadly passed away. The Mini was then stored by the family until 2017, when it was acquired by The Vendor.

Maintenance & Condition:

When purchased by The Vendor, the Mini Van was reportedly in great overall condition, although the paintwork was described as being very “tired and powdery”. As a result, The Vendor commissioned a bare-metal respray, with the vehicle refinished in its original Whitehall Beige. The Vendor also tells us that the vehicle has never had any welding or panel replacement, and that all body panels remain original. Replacement parts have reportedly been limited to perishable or service items such as door cards, wheel cylinders, brake pipes, rubber mats, exhaust, and bumpers. A new stainless steel exhaust has also been fitted. Impressively, the Mini is said to retain its original panels, subframes, seats, glass, and electrics, all dated August or September 1960. The rooflining, suspension, engine and gearbox are also reported to be original. The vehicle further retains its rare original master cylinders and even its original wire mesh air filter, both of which are notable details for a van of this age and originality. The current mileage of 21,631 is believed to be correct, supported by the early service history, although due to the long gap in documented use, it cannot be fully warranted.

History:

The accompanying history file is particularly impressive and helps support the vehicle’s remarkable story. It includes service records from 1960 to 1975, along with the original service book showing stamps up to 20,325 miles. Also present is a British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate confirming the vehicle as a home-market, right-hand drive example, finished in its original colour combination and supplied new in 1960 by Stewart & Arden Ltd of Southend-on-Sea. The file also contains fitting instructions for the rear seat conversion, an original sales brochure for the Morris Mini ¼ Ton Van, a fuel ration book, a Morris Minor Driver’s Handbook, a section of the original rubber mats, and invoices for parts. The level of detail contained within the file makes this a particularly well-documented and charming example of an early Mini commercial.

The Model:

Introduced in 1960, the Morris Mini Van 850 was the commercial derivative of Alec Issigonis’ revolutionary Mini. Built on a slightly lengthened wheelbase, the Van retained the compact proportions and ingenious packaging of the saloon while offering increased practicality through its rear load area and barn-style rear doors. Powered by the 848cc A-Series engine, the Mk I Mini Van featured many of the defining characteristics prized by Mini enthusiasts today, including external door hinges, sliding door windows, and the distinctive stamped “moustache” grille. Its commercial classification also made it especially popular in period, particularly with small businesses, tradesmen, fleet operators, and organisations such as the Post Office. Today, early Mk I Mini Vans are among the most desirable and collectible Mini variants, particularly when offered in highly original condition.

Sale Insight:

This is a very special Mk I Morris Mini Van 850, combining outstanding originality, fascinating long-term ownership, desirable early features, and a highly appealing history file. Its Restall rear seat conversion, factory reversing light, original colour scheme, and exceptionally well-preserved componentry make it a rare find. With just 21,631 miles displayed, believed correct but not warranted, and retaining so many important original details, this Whitehall Beige Mini Van represents a wonderful opportunity for the serious Mini collector, marque enthusiast, or anyone seeking one of the most characterful and historically significant small commercial vehicles of the 1960s.

Estimate:
£18,000 - £20,000