The International Harvester Company, of Chicago, Illinois, built its first experimental motor buggy in 1899. In the early days, it was best known for building “high-wheelers,” later developing the reputation as a producer of simple yet sturdy trucks and farm vehicles. Despite its sales potential, a light-duty pickup truck did not fit into International’s manufacturing scheme. I-H approached Willys, of Toledo, Ohio, about rebadging its C-113 pickup truck as the International D-1. What would have been almost unthinkable in good economic times made great sense in post-Depression America, and Willys quickly signed the deal. International introduced its first light-duty pickup truck, the D-1, in January 1933.

With the introduction of the C-series in 1934, International greatly expanded its truck lineup to include 33 variations on 15 basic models. The C-1 was also the first light-duty pickup that I-H built on its own. It shared the same wheelbase and six-cylinder engine of its Willys-built D-1 predecessor; however, I-H had purchased the patents and tooling for the motor and began building the trucks in its factories. The C-1 shared features that were common with cars of the era, including clamshell front fenders, a vee’d grille, and a modestly canted windshield—all of which made for one good-looking pickup truck. Wider doors made for easier entry and exit, while a ventilator on the cowl and a swing-out windshield made the interior much more comfortable during the summer days.

While the ½-ton truck was I-H’s most popular offering, the light-duty chassis was used as a platform for special bodies, such as wood station wagons, panel trucks, and canopy expresses. At the end of the production run in 1936, 80,000 C-line trucks had been built at International’s Springfield, Ohio plant, enabling I-H to regain its position as the third-ranked U.S. truck manufacturer. Incidentally, International trucks were marketed worldwide.

This handsome pickup was restored approximately three years ago by Tom Van Steyn of Full Circle Restorations in Lockeford, California. Less than 100 miles have been accumulated since its restoration to original specifications. According to the consigner, the pickup includes its original generator and carburetor, though an electrical fuel pump has been fitted for reliable performance and carefree operation. In addition, the consigner describes the restoration as “show quality,” noting that the bed is the proper corrugated steel, as a wood bed liner was not used. He adds that the interior doors are painted and not upholstered, and the cardboard headliner, also correct for the period, is property installed. It is equipped with the optional steel spoke wheels, side-mount spare, rear bumper, and wheel trim rings. Painted maroon with black fenders, it is fitted with Firestone wide whitewall tires, all of which combine to make for the striking appearance of an uncommon pickup with high style.