One of the more notable collector auctions of the summer will conclude on July 23, as Aumann Vintage Power brings the Tom Forster Gas Engine and Tractor Collection to online bidders. Built over many years in Warrenton, Missouri, the collection reflects the evolution of American farm power, ranging from early stationary gas engines to highly desirable two cylinder tractors and rare prewar machines.
With more than 20 antique tractors, over 100 stationary engines, and an assortment of vintage shop equipment, the sale represents far more than a typical estate auction. It offers collectors an opportunity to acquire machines assembled with a clear historical focus rather than random acquisitions.
Fordson roots shaped the collection
According to the auction information, Tom Forster began collecting Fordson tractors because they were closely connected to his father’s farming background. Like many long term collectors, however, one marque eventually led to a much broader passion.
Over the years the collection expanded to include classic John Deere, Case, stationary engines, and other early agricultural machinery representing several important chapters of North American agricultural history.
Rather than concentrating on factory fresh restorations alone, the collection balances restored display pieces with historically preserved machines that retain much of their original character.
Rare John Deere tractors lead the highlights
Several lots immediately stand out from both historical and collector perspectives.
Perhaps the most eye catching is the John Deere Model D “Spoker”, one of the earliest versions of Deere’s famous Model D featuring distinctive spoked steel wheels. Early “Spoker” tractors remain highly sought after because they represent the beginning of what would become the longest running tractor model in John Deere history.
Another standout is the beautifully restored John Deere Model GP, a machine that marked Deere’s transition toward more versatile row crop farming during the late 1920s and early 1930s. High quality restorations of GP tractors continue to attract strong interest among serious collectors.
The auction also includes multiple Fordson tractors that reflect the origins of Tom Forster’s collecting journey, along with classic Case tractors and an impressive lineup of stationary gas engines covering several generations of American engine manufacturing.
Stationary engines add depth
While antique tractors are expected to receive much of the attention, the stationary engine lineup could prove equally significant.
Collectors specializing in hit and miss engines often search for auctions that offer multiple examples from a single owner because such collections are typically assembled with careful attention to originality, mechanical condition, and historical significance. Having more than 100 engines available in one event makes this one of the larger dedicated engine offerings seen this year.
Why this auction matters
From an enthusiast’s perspective, the greatest strength of the Tom Forster Collection is its authenticity. Rather than chasing only high value investment pieces, the collection tells the broader story of early mechanized agriculture through machines that farmers actually depended on.
If choosing only a few standout lots, the John Deere Model D Spoker would likely attract the strongest competition because of its historical importance and relative scarcity. The John Deere GP follows closely behind thanks to its exceptional restoration quality, while the early Fordsons provide an appealing entry point for collectors interested in some of the first mass produced tractors ever built.
Collections assembled over decades by dedicated enthusiasts often preserve machines that may not appear together again for many years. That makes auctions like this valuable not only for buyers, but also for documenting agricultural history as these machines move into new collections.
Event details
- Auction: Tom Forster Gas Engine and Tractor Collection.
- Organizer: Aumann Vintage Power.
- Auction format: Online bidding.
- Auction closing: July 23, 2026, at 6:00 PM CDT.
- Collection location: 22878 Eagle Ridge Road, Warrenton, Missouri, USA.
About Aumann Vintage Power
Aumann Vintage Power has become one of North America’s leading auction companies specializing in antique tractors, gas engines, agricultural memorabilia, and vintage farm equipment. Since its founding, the company has conducted thousands of online and live auctions, marketing consignments across the United States and internationally. Its digital bidding platform regularly attracts tens of thousands of registered bidders, while its specialty sales have established numerous record prices for rare agricultural machinery and engines. The company’s focus on vintage power equipment has made it one of the most recognized names in the antique farm machinery auction industry.
Source: www.aumannvintagepower.com
