Vehicle Description
To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' Auburn
Fall event, 30 August - 2 September 2018.
Estimate:
$150,000 - $300,000
Offered from the John M. O'Quinn CollectionThe last automobile
personally owned by Pope Saint John Paul IIStill in its original
condition, as used by the Pope1.1-liter inline four-cylinder
engine, four-speed manual transmissionProceeds to benefit the
O'Quinn Foundation
Inarguably the most famous Ford Escort of all time, this
appropriately humble 1976 1100 GL sedan was owned by Karol Cardinal
Wojtyla, Archbishop of Krakow, until his election as Pope John Paul
II in 1978. Upon his elevation to the papacy, the Escort was put
into storage at the Vatican and remained hidden away until 1996,
when it was auctioned to benefit Vatican charities.
At that sale, the Escort was purchased by Jim Rich, in whose
ownership it was displayed at his Chicago-area restaurant. Rich
owned the car for nine years before selling it in 2005 to the late
John M. O'Quinn, in whose esteemed collection it was inarguably the
centerpiece and a favorite of visitors, for its unique and truly
special story.
Pope Saint John Paul II's Escort remains in largely original
condition, with 42 years of character earned since it was built at
the Ford Saarlouis assembly plant in West Germany. A "high-level"
version with power brakes, a driver's side mirror, and a clock, but
no radio, air conditioning, or even hubcaps, it is finished in
thoroughly patinaed Astral Silver with a grey velour interior, both
of which are the original materials from the Pope's ownership.
Under the hood is a 1.1-liter inline four-cylinder engine and
four-speed manual transmission.
The last automobile personally owned and used by a modern Saint,
and one of the most beloved world figures of our times, this car is
a truly special item for the dedicated collector - whether seeking
something just a little different, or whether wishing to honor the
memory of John Paul II. It has a provenance that is truly
impossible to equal.
Please note vehicle is being sold with title in transit.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction,
please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/AF18.
