From police officers to pool sharks, Paul Newman could relate to any character and inhabit any role. While some credit Newman’s piercing blue eyes as launching his Hollywood career, the Ohio-born actor’s affability and humble nature were equally responsible for his global appeal. After achieving household fame, Newman’s pursuits in motorsport only increased his mystique, with the Academy Award-winning actor achieving victory as a driver and team owner in Can-Am, Sports Car Club of America, IMSA, and IndyCar racing. With RM Sotheby’s expertise in appraising and presenting automotive-related collectibles, it is our pleasure to present High Speed: Paul Newman’s Racing Legacy, featuring nearly 100 lots from the estate of Paul Newman.

Artifacts from Newman’s adventurous life include a prized trophy from his GTS-1 class win at the 24 Hours of Daytona endurance race in 1995—such an astounding finish for a 70-year-old that it was the basis of a Guinness Book of World Records certificate. Many of Newman’s greatest victories on-track can be relived through race-worn fire suits, custom helmets, and championship rings kept for years by the undeniably talented driver. Framed period photographs showing Newman in pit lanes among fellow celebrities show the movie star wearing many of these items in his natural habitat. After a career taken at maximum speed, Newman is now considered one of the last larger-than-life film icons—certainly, no contemporary actor can claim to be as adept at the wheel of a racing car. Filled with treasured keepsakes from an extraordinary life, RM Sotheby’s is proud to host the collection of Paul Newman.