Overview

Dana Mecum is an American businessman and car enthusiast, born in 1954 in Monmouth, Illinois. He is best known as the founder and president of Mecum Auctions, the world’s largest collector car auction company. His father, Edward Mecum, was a prominent fleet salesman, which exposed Dana to the automotive industry from a young age. Dana started Mecum Auctions in 1988 from his dining room table with the help of his wife Patti. Despite facing initial challenges, including a disastrous first auction, Mecum persevered, growing the company into a global leader in collector car, motorcycle, and tractor auctions. Mecum Auctions hosts numerous events across the United States and is known for its large-scale auctions, including the annual Kissimmee, Florida, event. Mecum remains actively involved in the business, along with his wife and their four sons.

Mecum Auctions

Founder/President

What Is Dana Mecum’s Net Worth?

Dana Mecum, an American entrepreneur renowned for his contributions to the collector car auction industry, has amassed a considerable fortune over his career. As of 2025, Dana Mecum’s net worth is estimated to be $50 million. This wealth is primarily attributed to his role as the founder of Mecum Auctions, which has grown into one of the world’s leading auction houses for antique, vintage, and collector cars and motorcycles.

The Rise of Mecum Auctions

Mecum Auctions, the brainchild of Dana Mecum, emerged from humble beginnings in 1988. The inaugural auction, held at the Rockford Airport, faced an unexpected setback when a severe storm struck, causing significant disruption. Despite this initial challenge, Dana Mecum persevered, spending over 15 years laying the groundwork for what would become a highly successful business. Today, Mecum Auctions conducts more than one auction each month, showcasing an impressive inventory of approximately 15,000 cars annually. The company’s headquarters are located in Walworth, Wisconsin.

Mecum Auctions has achieved significant milestones, including hosting the world’s largest collector car auction, an annual event held in Florida. This extravaganza, which takes place each January in Kissimmee, Florida, spans 10 days and features around 3,000 cars on display, generating over $100 million in sales. Furthermore, Mecum Auctions boasts the most auction sites in the United States and leads in domestic sales volume among car auction companies. In recent years, the company has expanded its offerings to include collectible farm tractors, motorcycles, and road art. In 2017, Mecum Auctions handled 20,000 consignments, resulting in sales exceeding $400 million. These auctions are typically broadcast on NBC Sports Network, further enhancing the company’s visibility and reach.

Dana Mecum’s Personal Life and Family Involvement

Dana Mecum shares his life with his wife, Patti, and together they have four sons and nine grandchildren. The entire Mecum family is deeply involved in the operations of Mecum Auctions, contributing to the company’s success and growth. Dana and Patti Mecum reside in the Geneva Lakes area of Southeastern Wisconsin. In March 2020, a false rumor circulated regarding Dana Mecum’s death, originating from an obituary for his close friend, Bill Grams, which media outlets mistakenly attributed to Mecum. However, Dana Mecum is alive and continues to lead Mecum Auctions.

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