Ford trucks of 1939 continued the classic “barrel grille” theme adopted a year earlier. While other trucks from other manufacturers continued a gradual change to more comfy and luxuriant models, the Blue Oval’s haulers remained true to their utilitarian routes. Interiors were comfortable but simple, with two basic gauges, a painted dashboard, and only useful trim. The major changes were found underneath, as, along with the rest of the 1939 Ford models, the trucks were given four-wheel hydraulic brakes. “Juice” brakes made these not only some of the most dependable utility vehicles of the time, but they were also an early effort towards improving safety. The busy workman who valued ruggedness and precaution drove a Blue Oval product.

Finished in Vineyard Green, this half-ton truck features a partially wooden stake bed, green wheel hubs, amber driving lamps, and wide whitewall tires. Restored to original condition, it was used sparingly by its owner as his collection’s service vehicle, making runs to the auto parts store and doughnut shop, and it has been very popular in his local Fourth of July parade. He reports that it has been easy to maintain and drive, and, most importantly, it always runs. The odometer shows under 70,000 miles, which is believed to be actual mileage from new.

One hundred percent of the hammer proceeds of this truck will be donated to the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance Foundation, which, since 1996, has donated over $2 million to deserving charities along Florida’s First Coast, including Community Hospice of Northeast Florida Inc., the Spina Bifida Association of Florida at Jacksonville, Shop with Cops and Cops ‘n’ Kids, and the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society. This is a wonderful opportunity to acquire one of the most iconic trucks of its period, in excellent cosmetic and working order, while benefiting a very noble cause.