Vehicle Description
1954 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn Park Ward Drophead Coupe 1 of 12 Built
This Park Ward Drophead Coupe, design number 355, is one of only
twelve made. The swooping, black front fenders blend seamlessly
into the tapered rear with spats covering the rear wheels. The
dual-tone Grey paint set off the matching Maroon seats and
convertible top. Left hand drive enhances the driving experience in
North America.According to copies of the factory record, this
stunning Rolls was ordered by Hess Brothers department store in
Allentown, Pennsylvania. With offices in London, Rome, and Paris,
Hess Brothers were known for being purveyors of the latest
fashions, so it is little surprise that their vehicle of choice was
also on the cutting edge. In addition to its elegant,
aforementioned colorway, it was fitted with a power top, medium
wave radio, white wall tires, and all the accoutrements required
for the American market.Completed at the factory on May 29, 1952,
Hess Brothers took receipt on August 25 of that year and kept them
for about nine months before heading to the Woodbridge, Connecticut
garage of Sereno Clark Sperry, Jr. in June 1953. Mr. Sperry would
enjoy his drop top for six and a half years, trading it in on the
purchase of a brand-new Bentley Continental Flying Spur with J.S.
Inskip on April 17, 1959. A copy of the invoice for the new Bentley
listing the trade is on fileInskip valued the Rolls at $7,500 at
the time, leaving a $14,275 balance for the new car. In December of
1959, Inskip sold the Rolls to James C. Ryan.There is no recorded
history for the car until January of 1972 when it came into the
collection of Richard Thomas of Stuart, Florida. Mr Thomas would
retain the Rolls for the next 36 years, eventually restoring it and
regularly showing it, including at the 2004 Amelia Island Concours
d'Elegance where it went home with the Amelia Award. Acquired by
its previous owner in May of 2008, the Drophead has remained on
static display for the last 14 years. Still retaining its 20 year
old restoration, the car has mellowed over the years but still
carries with it plenty of presence, although recommissioning will
be required prior to active use. An exciting opportunity to own a
unique coach built open car from Britain's most prestigious
manufacturer during the period when the British motor industry
regained its footing after the war. It is a rare beauty that would
be the perfect transportation to one of the world's great
automotive events, whether the driver is a participant or a
spectator.Coachwork by Park Ward & Co. Ltd.Chassis no. LSHD48Engine
no. S24D One of only twelve made Delivered new to Allentown,
Pennsylvania Heavily optioned with power featured Exceedingly rare,
coachbuilt luxuryPrice: $267,500
