Hello,
Hoping to get some info on this. I purchased an auction lot and at the back of the auction was this bicycle. It is a JC Higgins. Model number looks like 857 4666. It is in definite "fixer upper" condition. I haven't been able to find much about this model number. I have found on Ebay that the JC Higgins parts sell pretty good. This does have the metal emblem on the front still in tact. I am looking for any info anyone might have about this or info about where I can go to research more. If you have any questions, I am happy to answer. Attaching a couple pics for reference.
Thank you,

The fork is backwards.

It looks to be a STD model since there is no Tank/Headlight or racks. (granted yes they might have been removed). my guess would be a mid 1960's vintage.

you may check out National Bicycle History Archive of America they can help identify the Year or the range of years. I sent them pics of a JC Higgins i have and since the SN# was missing a digit they were able to narrow down to a 4 year range 1958-1961.

That might be the way to go on this thing, if you don't want a long and laborious restoration project.. Keep in mind though, the parts that are getting top prices on eBay are in very good shape, the ones on your bike are all pretty rough. Also note ebay asking price does not equal sold price. Click on the advanced search button and select only "sold" auctions to get a realistic idea of what parts are worth.

Might be a lot less trouble to put the bike up on your local CL and see if anyone bites.

Just wanted to say thanks for the help....I think I will try the CL route. I had an offer earlier on a post from CL offering to purchase older bicycles for $60 but that just fell through 5 min ago....I don't think the guy was ever serious about purchasing it....made me a little nervous about putting an ad out there....Gonna try it and see what I get! Thanks again!

The fork also appears to be bent, which is probably the reason it was turned around in the first place; so the front wheel would clear the downtube.