This first-generation 1950 Cadillac Coupe de Ville is a former part of the noted Maine-based collection of the late Charles M. Cawley, one of the founders of MBNA Bank and the person who started Mastercard, who passed away in 2015. Following dispersal of the remaining cars in Mr. Cawley’s collection, the Coupe de Ville passed to a dealer in Arizona during 2015 at 16,383 original miles, followed by purchase by a Californian owner at 16,383 indicated miles in 2017 before our purchase. Currently, just under 21,000 miles are indicated. As offered, the Coupe de Ville remains in exceptionally fine and original, rust-free form, indicative of the collector care it has received. Finished in its original Black (Code 1) paint and retaining original undercoating, the Coupe de Ville features newer and correct Light Gray leather upholstery plus a new headliner and new carpeting that was fitted in 2012, with the original door panels and headliner still in place. Options and amenities include power steering, power brakes, power windows, a heater/defroster, 6-way power front seat, fog lamps, an original Wonderbar signal-seeking radio, back-up lights, and the original matching numbers Cadillac 331 CI V-8 engine, factory-rated at 160 horsepower and paired with a Hydra-Matic 4-speed automatic transmission. Other highlights include the original chrome and glass, polished stainless trim, the original power windows and power front seat, original clock (with newer Quartz movement), original vacuum-type windshield wipers, original braking system, original 6-volt electrical system, original power steering and original gauges. Additional features include a power antenna, rocker panel moldings, rear fender skirts, correctly relined trunk, and a set of 1953 Kelsey-Hayes style chrome wire wheels. Supplemental items include show award plaques, a 1950 Cadillac data book and 1950 Cadillac Ownership Guide, an Air Conditioning booklet (for 12 volt systems), a 1950 Cadillac shop manual, and a 3-ring binder containing service records since 1990. In summary, Hemmings described this vehicle as not only the finest 1950s car available in today’s marketplace but also the best Cadillac on the market. That’s high praise coming from a world-class authority. Few finer or more correct examples are likely available anywhere else! Appraised value of $125,000 CAD. Canadian tax is not applicable.
