I attended a similar auction last month in Oklahoma. Unfortunately the 'old guy' kept the majority of his collection outdoors and exposed to the elements.
Over five hundred bidders and they were also taking bids online and over the phone.
This 1959 Caddy, 2-door convertible sold to someone in New York (phone bid) for
$18,800.
This rare 1935 Ford Roadster went for $25,500. (also a phone bid)
I went, hoping to find something for a "rat rod" project. I've had a 302 smallblock Chevy and Borg Warner Super T-10 sitting in my garage for almost thirty years now ...they need to 'spin' again.
I had my eye on this 1954 Studebaker Commander Coupe.
It was rougher than the online photos of the auction indicated - so I passed. It sold for $3,300.
thus, the search continues....