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Exceedingly Rare 1954 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn
Drophead Coupe: One of Only 6 Built, 3 with Automatics
This 1954 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn Drophead Coupe Left-Hand Drive is one of only six made and only one of three with an automatic transmission. The swooping, black front fenders blend seamlessly into the tapered rear with spats covering the rear wheels. The dual-tone paint has mint green sides over dark green which set off the matching dark green seats with mint green piping. According to copies of the factory record, this stunning Rolls was ordered by an equally stunning and flamboyant person—the Baroness Rozelle Empain (née Rowland), the wife of Baron Jean Empain. An American burlesque performer, she and her husband were known to throw elaborate, Gatsby-esque parties at their palace. The car was originally delivered new to Château de Bouffémont, just north of Paris, on June 17, 1953, finished in Moss Green over tan hides, optioned with power windows, top, steering and an automatic gearbox. The Baroness kept the Rolls until 1966, when it was to a Monsieur Sadoul of Paris's 7th Arrondissement. It is likely the car remained in France, receiving a restoration in the 1980s during which it was finished in its current two tone green. In 1988, it took first place at the Grand Prix de Diane Hermes, with the award given by Britain's Princess Anne. Acquired by the previous owner in November of 2009, the Drophead has remained on static display for the last 12 years. Recommissioning will be required prior to active use. As one of just six ever built and one of only three with an automatic transmission, this highly optioned coachbuilt Rolls-Royce is one incredibly rare automobile.
Coachwork by Park Ward & Co. Ltd.
Chassis no. LSMF10
Engine no. S5F
- One of only six made, three with automatics
- Delivered new to Baroness Rozelle Empain
- Heavily optioned with power featured
- Exceedingly rare, coachbuilt luxury
Price: $295,000
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