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Silver Anniversary Project: 1979 Jeep CJ5

This 1979 Jeep CJ5 Renegade is a rare Silver Anniversary edition, a rare model with right around 800 ever made. Built as a commemoration of the classic Jeep’s 25th anniversary, the Silver Anniversary models are sought after by the Jeep faithful, despite the fact that it was largely a cosmetic dress-up kit on the standard model. Still, limited supply is a great way to ensure a particular product will remain sought after for years to come, and the Silver Anniversary models are no different. The seller notes he picked this one up from the widow of the longtime owner, and that it still runs and drives. Find it here on eBay with one bid to $5,000.

The seller notes that he lowered the price in this listing, and will not go any lower. I didn’t catch the opening bell, but I’m guessing the one bid is the entry price into possibly owning this rare CJ5, and it seems like a fair price with some room to go if the description lines up with reality. The Silver Anniversary editions and the Jamborees are often spoken of in the same breath for their rarity and the fact that they were sold when Jeep was riding an immense wave of popularity, both with off-roaders and soft-roaders alike. A Jeep symbolized freedom and fun at the same time, and much like today, customers became fans for life when they got their first taste.

While the Jamboree was more geared towards users who actually took their CJ5s off the beaten path, the Silver Anniversary models were meant more as a tribute to how far the Jeep had come. Special Quicksilver Metallic paint was used, a special color that stood apart from Silver Metallic, as the Silver Anniversary editions were the only model ever painted this shade. Unlike the Jamborees, the Silver Anniversary Jeeps were not numbered, but there are a few key features that set them apart in addition the paint. These special models also received unique seats and a plaque on the dash. Sadly, this one doesn’t have the original seats.

The seller claims of the 800 made, there are only believed to be 50 left in this particular combination, which I’m assuming means the Silver Anniversary package with the manual transmission. The paint is heavily faded and sun-burnt, but the seller does note there’s no evidence of prior bodywork and the paint is likely original. In addition, the Jeep will come with some original parts including the original spare rim, center console, metal fold up bars for the soft top. While the missing seats are a detriment for sure, there’s surely someone who knows where an original set is hiding, stashed away in the rafters. Would you restore this one or leave it as-is?

Comments

  1. Avatar photo Mitchell Gildea Member

    The silver’s a little tarnished now eh

    Like 2
  2. Avatar photo Pat

    Nice patina build…

    Like 0
  3. Avatar photo JoeMac

    This is a very nice project.

    Like 0
  4. Avatar photo Mark

    I bought this in 2020. It will be restored to original condition

    Like 0

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