Another Iconic ‘Only Fools and Horses’ Reliant Van Set for Auction

Some TV props transcend their roles, and the yellow three-wheeler from ‘Only Fools and Horses’ is a prime example. This vehicle is one of the most recognizable in British television history, featuring prominently in the sitcom’s most unforgettable scenes. Collectors are willing to pay a significant amount for such iconic items.

The show aired from 1981 to 2003, following the misadventures of Del Boy and his younger brother Rodney, portrayed by David Jason and Nicholas Lyndhurst. The Reliant served as the family’s primary mode of transport throughout much of the series, playing a crucial role in various storylines. Its distinctive three-wheeled design became a running joke, despite the fact that these vehicles were manufactured with serious intent.

Now, a piece of this beloved history is heading to auction. The details are quintessentially Trotters. The side of the van features the iconic “Trotters Independent Trading Co, New York, Paris, Peckham” signage. This 700cc van has traveled approximately 156,000 kilometers, which is about 97,000 miles.

Included in the auction lot are several recognizable props. The collection features an inflatable doll, a “Tax in the Post” sign for the windscreen, fluffy dice, and an old suitcase on the roof rack. Similar items have appeared in previous auctions, and the doll references the episode ‘Danger UXD’.

While the specific auction details for the 1972 van have yet to be confirmed, previous sales of similar 1972 Supervans have started at £15,000, with one from the same series fetching £41,625 in 2017.

The 1972 van isn’t the only one making headlines. Iconic Auctioneers is set to auction a different Reliant Regal Supervan III, a 1969 model with the registration APL 911H, during its Classic Sale at the NEC Classic Motor Show on Sunday, November 15. This van is estimated to sell for between £30,000 and £40,000.

This particular van has a notable history, as it was the only Reliant featured in all 13 episodes of the first two series aired in 1981 and 1982, according to the auction house. The Reliant Motor Club has also verified its appearance in the opening episode, ‘Big Brother’.

Since then, it has had a relatively quiet existence. The current owner acquired it earlier this year after it spent time in a private collection and underwent some light restoration. Recent mechanical updates include a new battery, new brake cylinders, and a fuel system overhaul.

The sale will also include memorabilia, such as a novelty £6.2 million cheque made out to D Trotter and R Trotter, a nod to the show’s famous catchphrase about becoming millionaires.

These vans were designed with specific purposes in mind. Their fiberglass bodies were lightweight and resistant to rust, although fake rust was often added for comedic effect during filming. The cast frequently referred to the van as a shabby old three-wheeler, yet it endured long filming days remarkably well.

Provenance can be a complicated issue. Several Reliants were utilized during filming, including one that was blown up and another that jumped over a bridge and fell apart. Many individuals claim to own a genuine screen-used van, but very few possess the necessary proof, making confirmations from the Reliant Motor Club particularly valuable.

The cultural impact of the van extends beyond the show itself. A Reliant Regal made an appearance during the closing ceremony of the 2012 London Olympics, humorously falling apart as Batman and Robin emerged, a scene inspired by an ‘Only Fools and Horses’ episode.

If the auctions proceed as anticipated, two different vans could soon find new owners. For dedicated fans, this represents a unique opportunity to own a piece of British comedy history.

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