For Sale at Auction: 1952 Aston Martin Coupe in Amelia Island, Florida

Chassis No. LML/50/217
Body No. 8045

Before Aston Martin earned global acclaim for the refined 2+2 grand tourers of the 1960s, the marque's post-war identity was already taking shape with the earlier "Feltham" cars, named for the company's base in Feltham, England. After David Brown acquired Aston Martin in 1947, along with Lagonda's facilities at Hanworth Park, the firm set about launching the new "DB" series of sports cars, led by the DB2 as its first post-war production road car.

Brown's chief motivation for acquiring Lagonda was to gain access to the company's sophisticated 2.6-liter twin-cam straight-six, rated at 105 horsepower-a considerable leap beyond the overhead-valve straight-four used in the Aston Martin 2-Litre Sports. Cloaked in sleek Frank Feeley-designed coachwork, the DB2 debuted first as a Coupe and quickly proved its competition credentials, including a class victory at the 1950 24 Hours of Le Mans. A few months later, Aston Martin introduced the Drophead Coupe. Roughly 191 pounds lighter than the Coupe, it offered a purer, more lithe open-air character, and with just 98 built from a total DB2 production of only 411, it remains among the most scarce and desirable early David Brown-era Astons.

This attractive 1952 Aston Martin DB2 Drophead Coupe, chassis LML/50/217, was completed on 27 September 1952 in left-hand drive configuration, and finished in Almond Green over a Beige interior with Green piping. Its British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate also records that it was originally equipped with a rear seat and an instruction book and was dispatched to International Motors on 10 October.

The Aston was reportedly originally owned by famed musical director Adolph Deutsch of MGM and later resurfaced in 1980 when it was acquired by longtime Aston specialist Kenneth D. Lawrence. In 1981, he sourced a correct engine from fellow marque authority Ken Boyd, and in 1985, he sold the DB2 to respected coachbuilder Ed Myers. Lawrence subsequently rebuilt the engine for Myers, who then undertook a comprehensive frame-off restoration. Following Myers' passing, Lawrence reacquired the DB2 from Myers' widow.

In 2006, Lawrence sold the Aston to the current owner and collector who began a comprehensive restoration from what was a notably sound, original example. With a strong emphasis on factory correctness, the DB2's alloy bodywork was carefully refurbished with close attention paid to preserving the original panels (bearing body number 8045), before being refinished in an attractive silver hue by Countach Inc. The model's restrained brightwork-including the door handles, headlamps, bumper trims, and ancillary fittings-were all restored to a high standard, complementing the car's clean, sculptural lines. It rides on correct wire wheels with chrome knock-off hubs and is fitted with 6.00-16 Dunlop Roadspeed tires.

Inside, the cabin was re-trimmed by Carol Cole Upholstery in vibrant red leather across the seats and door cards, paired with red Wilton carpeting and gray piping for a sophisticated finish. Wood trim accents the door tops, steering wheel rim, and instrument cluster, all beautifully refinished, while the Smiths gauges and switchgear remain in fine order. Behind the seats, the parcel shelf incorporates a custom-fitted suitcase trimmed in matching red leather. A new black canvas soft top with red piping was fitted, and with the roof lowered, a red leather boot cover may be installed to neatly finish the presentation.

The restoration was completed in February 2008, and chassis LML/50/217 made its public debut the following month at the 2008 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance. Since then, the DB2 has enjoyed an active show career, with its windshield carrying a parade of event badges that chronicle appearances at Hilton Head, Gasparilla, Meadow Brook, the Concours d'Elegance of America, and the Cavallino Classic, among others. Adding further distinction, the front bumper is adorned with AACA accolades, including a Senior National First Prize in 2008 and a Grand National First Prize in 2010. With its standout presentation and well-documented concours resume, this DB2 Drophead is ideally suited for continued show-field display, marque gatherings, and prestigious concours events. Thoroughly documented, the car is accompanied by a copy of its factory build sheet, British Heritage Trust Certificate, restoration invoices, parts receipts, and restoration photos.