The 1961 Cooper Monaco Mark III Type 61 is arguably the most historically significant Cooper Monaco in existence. First driven in period by Bruce McLaren, this vehicle has a rich history, including being part of the Briggs Cunningham team. It has recently been victorious at the Rolex Reunion and Velocity International, and has been shown at The Quail.

The Cooper Car Company is regarded as one of the most important British Motorsports companies in the world. Known for their engineering efficiency and nimble capacity on racetracks, Cooper Cars attracted celebrated drivers such as Sir Stirling Moss, Juan Manuel Fangio, Jack Brabham, Bruce McLaren, and Pedro Rodriguez. The company's innovations, including lightweight honeycomb monocoque construction and specialized engine tuning, have had a lasting impact on the racing scene.

The Cooper Monaco was a uniquely constructed, low-profile, lightweight sports racer, earning its name in honor of the Cooper victory at the 1958 Monaco Grand Prix. The Type 61 Mark III development included a new stiffer chassis, in-house hand-formed alloy body panels, and replacement of the former transverse rear leaf spring configuration with double wishbone, coil spring suspension. The rear fenders of the Mark III were formed with elevated, pointed fins to aid in high-speed stability.

This Cooper Monaco, CM/3/61, is among a handful of uniquely distinguished, historically documented, and important Mark IIIs built. Originally ordered by Peter Berry, the car was completed by Bruce McLaren at the Cooper works alongside factory mechanic Mike Barney. McLaren tested the car at Silverstone, lapping the circuit a full one-second faster than Stirling Moss' best time in a Lotus-Climax 19.

CM/3/61 has a storied racing history, including being driven by Bruce McLaren, Walt Hansgen, and others. The car achieved victories at the 1962 Watkins Glen Grand Prix and the FIA International 500K race at Bridgehampton in September of 1963. After passing through several owners, the car underwent a comprehensive restoration in 2003, overseen by expert engineer Steve Slyfield, while Cooper specialist Ken Nichols handled the chassis work.

Today, CM/3/61 is a testament to the innovative spirit of the Cooper Car Company and the talented drivers who piloted it to victory. Its rich history and meticulous restoration make it a truly unique and valuable addition to any collector's stable.