Tanks are undeniably impressive machines, embodying power and military might. If you have the space, the know-how for maintenance, and the financial means, owning a tank is a possibility. But just how much does a tank cost? This guide explores the prices of various military tanks available for civilian purchase.
M4 Sherman Tank
For many, the M4 Sherman is the quintessential tank. Its effectiveness and widespread production, with nearly 50,000 units manufactured before and during WWII, contribute to its iconic status. Only the Soviet T-34 saw higher production numbers. Today, an M4 Sherman tank for sale typically costs around $250,000.
M-50 Israeli Sherman
The M-50, often called the Super Sherman, was used by the Israel Defense Forces from the 1950s to the 1970s. It’s a modified variant of the American M4 Sherman, featuring an up-converted 75mm tank gun. The M-50 saw action in the Six-Day War and served as a reserve unit in the Yom Kippur War. These tanks generally sell in the range of $300,000 to $350,000.
Centurion AVRE
The Centurion AVRE is equipped with a 165mm demolition gun, a .30in Browning machine gun, and smoke dischargers. Powered by a Rolls Royce Meteor V12 engine producing 650bhp, it had a top speed of 21mph in the 1950s. Weighing 52 tons, it requires a crew of five. Pricing for this tank varies significantly based on condition and availability.
Mk10 Chieftain Tank
The Chieftain represents an advancement over the Centurion. Introduced in the mid-1960s, it was faster and more heavily armed, setting a new standard for main battle tanks. A military tank for sale like this one can be found for around $75,000, though prices can fluctuate.
FV4601 MBT-80
The FV4601 MBT-80 was a third-generation main battle tank designed to replace the Chieftain. Though the Challenger 1 ultimately filled that role, two prototypes of the MBT-80 were constructed. One is displayed at the Bovington Tank Museum, while the other was sold to a private collector for an undisclosed amount.
Panzer IV
The Panzerkampfwagen IV, or Panzer IV, was Nazi Germany’s most widely used tank during World War II. Around 8,500 units were built. A Panzer IV was estimated to fetch $2.4 million to $2.6 million at a 2014 auction.
Mowag Pirat
The MOWAG Pirat is exceptionally rare, with only 11 ever produced. These prototypes were designed for the Swiss Army, but the army opted for the American M113 instead. One Pirat is rumored to be the last operational tank of its kind not owned by a museum. An accurate price for this military tank for sale to civilians is difficult to determine.
Sd.Kfz. 251
The Sonderkraftfahrzeug 251, a widely-used armored half-track, was produced in over 15,000 editions. Primarily used by Nazi Germany, other countries also employed it. Numerous versions existed for various roles, from infantry combat to medical transport.
T34-85
The T-34 was a Soviet medium tank that became the most-produced tank of World War II, with over 84,000 built. The T-34-85 was an improved variant designed to counter German Panzers. The price for a T34-85 is not consistently listed on the market.
Chaffee M24
The M24 Light Tank was a successful tank, equipped with a potent 75 mm main gun. An M24 tank for sale can reach prices as high as $350,000.
M22 Locust Light Tank
The M22 Locust was an American-designed airborne light tank developed during World War II. Beset by technical problems and thin armor, it didn’t perform well in action. This WWII relic typically sells for around $55,000.
M39 Armored Utility Vehicle
The M39 Armored Utility Vehicle, weighing over 33,000 pounds and capable of carrying 8 passengers, was produced in limited numbers. Due to its rarity, an M39 for sale can cost upwards of $445,000.
AMX-13 Light Tank
The AMX-13 Light Tank pioneered the use of an oscillating turret. With over 7,500 built, several quality AMX-13s remain intact. An AMX-13 tank for sale can cost roughly $70,000.
Leopard I A5 BE Main Battle Tank
The Leopard I battle tank, produced in West Germany in the mid-1950s, was hailed as NATO’s Main Battle Tank. A Leopard military tank for sale will cost around $225,000.
M3 General Lee Tank
The M3 General Lee Battle Tank, produced in the late 1930s, filled a brief need before the M4’s introduction. An M3 tank for sale to civilians will cost about $150,000.
M5A1 Stuart Tank
The M5A1 Stuart tank, an upgraded version of the M3 Stuart, featured two Cadillac V8 engines. This tank typically goes for around $125,000.
T54 Main Battle Tank
The T-54, a Soviet main battle tank, was the most-produced tank in history. It featured a 100 mm rifled gun and was simple to operate. The price comes around £94,000.
FV 214 Conqueror
The FV 214 Conqueror, developed by Britain to combat Soviet heavy tanks, was equipped with a 120 mm rifled gun. The Conqueror goes from $150,000 to $200,000.
FV101 Scorpion Tank
The FV101 Scorpion, a light tank designed to be air-portable, holds the Guinness world record for the fastest production tank. You can buy this tank for around £10,000 to £20,000.
FV107 Scimitar
The FV107 Scimitar is a reconnaissance vehicle, similar to the FV101 Scorpion but with a 30mm RARDEN cannon. The price for a Scimitar will run you around £39,995.
Patton M47 Medium Battle Tank
The M47 Patton, a medium tank that served during the early years of the Cold War, is now available for purchase by civilians.
Final Thoughts
The cost of owning a tank varies widely depending on the model, its condition, and its rarity. From relatively affordable light tanks to million-dollar WWII relics, there’s a tank out there for a range of budgets. Remember to factor in maintenance and transportation costs when considering your purchase.
