Genna Suh

Written by Genna Suh

Modified & Updated: 05 Sep 2024

10-facts-about-nick-mead
Source: Teamusa.com

Who is Nick Mead? Nick Mead is a British tank collector and restorer who gained fame for his unique hobby. He owns Tanks-A-Lot, a company that offers tank driving experiences. Mead's collection includes over 150 military vehicles, making it one of the largest private collections in the world. His passion for tanks started in the 1980s, and he has since become a well-known figure in the military vehicle community. Why is Nick Mead famous? He made headlines in 2017 when he discovered gold bars inside a tank he bought on eBay. This unexpected find brought him international attention and added a layer of intrigue to his already fascinating life.

Key Takeaways:

  • Nick Mead is a British collector with over 150 military vehicles, including tanks and armored cars. His company, Tanks-A-Lot, offers unique tank driving experiences and has appeared in movies and TV shows.
  • Nick Mead's passion for military history has led to fascinating discoveries, including $2.5 million worth of gold bars found in a tank. His work educates the public about military history and has inspired others to start their own collections.
Table of Contents

Who is Nick Mead?

Nick Mead is a British collector and restorer of military vehicles. He has gained attention for his unique collection and fascinating discoveries. Let's dive into some interesting facts about him.

Nick Mead's Unique Collection

Nick Mead's collection is not your average set of antiques. He focuses on military vehicles, which makes his collection stand out.

  1. Nick Mead owns over 150 military vehicles. His collection includes tanks, armored cars, and other military equipment from various eras and countries.
  2. He started collecting military vehicles in the 1980s. What began as a hobby has grown into one of the largest private collections of military vehicles in the world.
  3. Nick Mead's collection is housed at Tanks-A-Lot. Tanks-A-Lot is a company he founded that offers tank driving experiences and military vehicle restoration services.

Fascinating Discoveries

Nick Mead's passion for military vehicles has led to some incredible finds over the years.

  1. He discovered $2.5 million worth of gold bars in a tank. While restoring a T54 tank, he found five gold bars hidden inside. The gold was likely looted during the Gulf War.
  2. Nick Mead has found rare and historically significant vehicles. His collection includes a German Panzer tank and a Soviet T-34, both of which played crucial roles in World War II.

Tanks-A-Lot Experiences

Nick Mead's company, Tanks-A-Lot, offers unique experiences for those interested in military history and vehicles.

  1. Tanks-A-Lot offers tank driving experiences. Visitors can drive various tanks and military vehicles, providing a hands-on history lesson.
  2. The company hosts special events and parties. From corporate events to birthday parties, Tanks-A-Lot offers a unique venue for memorable occasions.
  3. Tanks-A-Lot has appeared in movies and TV shows. Nick Mead's vehicles have been featured in productions like "Saving Private Ryan" and "Fury."

Nick Mead's Impact on Military History

Nick Mead's work goes beyond collecting and restoring vehicles. He has made significant contributions to preserving military history.

  1. He educates the public about military history. Through Tanks-A-Lot, Nick Mead provides educational experiences that teach people about the history and significance of military vehicles.
  2. Nick Mead has inspired other collectors. His passion and dedication have encouraged others to start their own collections and contribute to preserving military history.

Final Thoughts on Nick Mead

Nick Mead's story is a fascinating blend of passion, history, and adventure. His journey from a tank enthusiast to a renowned collector showcases his dedication to preserving military history. With over 150 tanks in his collection, Mead's efforts provide a unique glimpse into the past, allowing people to experience history firsthand. His discovery of gold bars in a tank's fuel tank added an unexpected twist to his already intriguing tale. Mead's work reminds us of the importance of preserving historical artifacts and the stories they tell. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about unique hobbies, Nick Mead's life offers plenty of interesting facts and lessons. His dedication and enthusiasm serve as an inspiration for anyone looking to turn their passion into something extraordinary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's so special about Nick Mead?
Nick Mead isn't your everyday guy; he's a tank collector with a knack for uncovering hidden treasures. Imagine stumbling upon gold bars while restoring a tank – that's the kind of adventure Nick lives for. His collection isn't just for show; it's a gateway to history, each tank telling its own war-time story.
How did Nick Mead find gold in a tank?
While restoring an ex-military tank, Nick and his team discovered something unbelievable – gold bars hidden in the fuel tank. It's like something out of a movie, right? They were expecting rust and old parts, but instead, they hit a jackpot. This discovery catapulted Nick into the spotlight, showcasing his unique hobby to the world.
Can anyone visit Nick Mead's tank collection?
Absolutely! Nick's collection is part of a museum he runs, where enthusiasts and curious minds alike can explore these massive machines up close. It's not every day you get to see such a collection, making it a must-visit for anyone fascinated by military history or just looking for an unusual day out.
What kind of tanks does Nick Mead collect?
Nick's collection spans a wide range of tanks, from World War II relics to more modern beasts. Each one has its own history, and Nick takes pride in restoring them to their former glory. It's like stepping back in time, getting a glimpse of the past through these steel giants.
How did Nick Mead start collecting tanks?
Nick's journey into tank collecting started with a single purchase that quickly turned into a passion. What began as a hobby grew into a significant collection, fueled by his love for history and mechanics. His dedication to restoration has saved many tanks from being forgotten, preserving a piece of history for future generations.
What does Nick Mead do with the tanks?
Besides restoring them, Nick uses his tanks for film productions, educational purposes, and even charity events. His tanks have starred in movies, offering authenticity that only real tanks can provide. Nick's work brings history to life, making it accessible and exciting for all ages.
Has Nick Mead found anything else interesting in his tanks?
Alongside the gold discovery, Nick has unearthed various historical artifacts hidden within his tanks. From old ammunition to personal items left by soldiers, each find offers a unique glimpse into the life of those who served. These discoveries are treasures in their own right, adding layers of stories to his collection.

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