Barrett-Jackson tabulated that it sold more than $23.2 million in collector cars and automobilia while attracting dramatically more bidders and attendees during its 14th annual Palm Beach Auction this past weekend.

On Monday, the company highlighted this year’s Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach auction increased sales year-over-year with a higher average vehicle price in front of 65,000 people during a three-day span. Among the increased number of bidders in attendance, the company reported 42 percent of them were first-timers.

“Our Palm Beach auction was a remarkable success with an incredible docket of desirable supercars, original muscle cars and automobilia,” said Craig Jackson, chairman and chief executive officer of Barrett-Jackson.

“The crowds were electric throughout the weekend and primetime Saturday felt like primetime in Scottsdale as the wave of energy carried over from our 45th anniversary Scottsdale Auction,” Jackson continued. “We look forward to bringing this same excitement to our inaugural Mohegan Sun Auction in June.”

Barrett-Jackson said the popularity of the collector car event continues to climb. The Palm Beach Auction reached a broad international audience as Velocity and Discovery broadcasted live for 19 hours in the U.S. and Canada.

Viewers in the United Kingdom caught 10 hours of live auction action on Discovery Channel U.K. and Discovery Turbo making the live broadcast available to more viewers around the world than ever.

“One of the biggest stories was the strong demand for original American iron this year,” Jackson said. “On Saturday, we sold a pristine 1969 Ford Boss 429 (lot No. 423) that was once part of the Ron Pratte collection for $550,000. Original mid-year Corvettes from the FAC Collection attracted strong bids including a 1967 Corvette roadster (Lot No. 375) for $181,500 while another Bloomington Gold certified 427 convertible (lot No. 376) brought $154,000. Customs, especially trucks were popular, too. But the pristine, matching-numbers American muscle and sports cars were particularly coveted.”

The auction executive added that one of the reasons for the surge in interest in original cars in Palm Beach is the respect for Barrett-Jackson’s expertise in the industry and the presence of the most recognized experts in their respective automotive fields.

“We believe Barrett-Jackson has the most knowledgeable specialists in the collector car hobby,” Jackson said. “Our team, including president Steve Davis and vice president of consignment Gary Bennett, is comprised of experts from across the industry who have all earned the respect of collectors worldwide.

“Based on our extensive experience and expertise, bidders, consignors and our fans trust us to put on a world-class event,” Jackson went on to say.

Barrett-Jackson also mentioned supercars were a prominent part of the auction. Two rare Heritage Edition Ford GTs (lot No. 401 sold for $467,500 and lot No. 426 sold for $412,500) attracted heated bidding. Competition for a broad range of Porsches and Ferraris also reached a fevered pitch as many generated significant interest.

Barrett-Jackson continued its strong support of non-profits. The eight charity vehicles hammered for a combined $1,050,000 with 100 percent going directly to the charitable organization. Barrett-Jackson has helped raise more than $89 million to date.

“Not only did some remarkable vehicles cross the block for charity this year,” Davis said. “We also hosted some extraordinary guests, including retired U.S. Navy Seal Marcus Luttrell who encouraged people to support the Lone Survivor Foundation. It was inspirational to stand next to a genuine American hero.”

Movie and TV star William Shatner arrived on Friday to auction his 2002 Aston Martin DB7 and 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton. After the legendary actor transported his star power and humor to the stage, he autographed the cars for the winning bidders.

Country music artist Zac Brown, who headlined the 45th anniversary Scottsdale Gala, joined in the celebration at the Palm Beach’s Opening Night Gala and NASCAR superstar Kurt Busch flew in for Sunday’s action following his race in Texas on Saturday evening.

Barrett-Jackson will host its inaugural Northeast Auction at Mohegan Sun Resort & Casino on June 23 to June 25. For information on consigning a vehicle or becoming a bidder at the Northeast Auction, visit www.Barrett-Jackson.com.