Marketed by British Motor Corporation as a “rugged runabout with a thousand uses,” the Mini Moke gained a cult following as an inexpensive, easy-to-maintain, and fun recreational vehicle.

The remarkable Austin Mini Moke presented here is one of the approximately 14,500 first-generation examples built at BMC’s Longbridge, Birmingham plant between 1964 and 1968. A rare left-hand drive export model, this Moke was originally imported to the US via distributor Hambro Automotive Co. and retailed by La Canada Sport Cars in Los Angeles, California.

According to the consignor – the popular character actress and voice artist Jackie Joseph – this Austin was a gift from television legend Andy Griffith to her then husband Ken Berry, the lead actor in Mayberry R.F.D., which aired on CBS from 1968 through 1971. Amazingly, the Mini Moke has remained a cherished family member ever since, serving various roles from weekend driver to parade entrant. The consignor states, “This sweet car brought decades of joy to the Berry family.”

Today, the Austin remains in lovely unrestored condition and the odometer read just 16,002 miles at the time of cataloguing. It possesses a charming patina throughout, with gently faded red paint, candy-stripe seat cushions, and California vanity plates reading “KB RFD.” Notable accessories include a BMC radio, auxiliary horns, and period Paddy Hopkirk gas pedal. Included with the sale is a set of Cosmic alloy wheels (wearing period Firestone tires), a folding two-piece Flying Dutchman bicycle, original driver’s handbook, and factory sales brochure, as well as various photographs and newspaper clippings related to Ken Berry’s role in Mayberry R.F.D.

For the collector searching for an original Mini Moke, it would be hard to overlook a lovely unrestored example such as this, steeped in Hollywood history and being offered from decades of loving ownership.