To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' Amelia
Island event, 8 - 9 March 2019.
Estimate:
$70,000 - $90,000
- One of fewer than 1,000 produced
- Formerly part of The Thomas F. Derro Collection
- Well-kept restoration; wonderful presentation
- Special award winner at the Amelia Island Concours
d'Elegance
The year 1949 marked Chrysler's 25th anniversary, and the firm
introduced its all-new post-war models in March of that year.
Included was an equally new Town and Country model that now
featured an all-steel structure. This was the first "T&C" that
did not include the white ash framing as part of the structure of
the car. Chrysler claimed greater safety, durability, and ease of
maintenance. Gone was the four-door sedan, and two models were
offered: the convertible and a new two-door hardtop coupe (though
none of the latter was produced). Just 993 convertible models were
completed by year's end. Initially, Di-Noc mahogany panels accented
the ash framing, but during the model run they were eliminated and
the inset panels were now painted the same color as the body.
This 1949 Chrysler Town and Country was one of the last 50 examples
produced. It is finished in its original color of Indian Maroon,
with a maroon convertible top and chrome wire wheels. The interior
is completed in red leather and tartan fabric and features a clock
and radio. Fully restored in 1991, it was later enjoyed for several
years by the well-known enthusiast Bruce Earlin of Milford,
Pennsylvania, under whose ownership it won a special award at the
Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance in 2006. Fresh off the field, it
was sold to Thomas F. Derro, where it was well preserved in his
collection, with its paint, woodwork, and interior remaining in
fine overall order and appearing nearly freshly done. The Chrysler
was purchased in 2017 by the current owner, where it has remained
as part of another well-regarded private collection.
One of fewer than 1,000 built, this Town and Country convertible is
a lovely example of one of the most evocative and elegant
automobiles of its era. It remains a staple classic, one that each
discerning collection should have.To view this car and others
currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am19.