Shannons has the final coupe version of the original ‘Monaro’ series – an increasingly collectible, limited edition 1976 Holden HX LE coupe – coming up at its Summer Classic Auction in Sydney on February 15.

A run of just 580 HX LE coupes was produced at Holden’s Pagewood plant in Sydney and featured striking metallic crimson paintwork, gold pin-striping and stylish ‘LE’ lettering on its bootlid.

While it did not physically wear the hallowed ‘Monaro’ nameplate, Holden fans regard it as a true blue member of the breed and now value it accordingly.

The HX LE came only as a package with Holden’s 308-cid V8, the Turbo-Hydramatic transmission and Salisbury limited slip differential – all high-performance Monaro hardware.

Four quartz halogen headlights, colour-keyed front and rear spoilers and unique gold-finished 14x7in polycast wheels completed the distinctive model.

The passenger compartment combined GTS features with a walnut finish dash fascia and centre console with crushed velour and cloth trim.

Its comprehensive equipment list included power steering, windows and aerial; integrated air conditioning; heated rear window; tinted windows and a quadraphonic eight-track cartridge player.

The original eight-track system (although not currently fitted) is included in the sale, along with a number of spare music cartridges.

The HX LE being auctioned by Shannons was sold new in Toowoomba and remains in very original condition in the hands of its third owner.

Shannons expects the Holden HX LE to sell in the $32,000 to $36,000 range.