1927 Rolls-Royce Phantom in Amelia Island, Florida

Chassis No. S397FM
Engine No. 20977

This Springfield-built Phantom I was sold new to a Mrs. J.C. Benz of Lynn, Massachusetts, on 6 April 1928 with Arundel limousine coachwork. Later, it was acquired on 3 November 1933 by Sanders A. Levinsohn of Deal, New Jersey. At delivery, the heavy formal limousine coachwork was removed in favor of a rakish Brewster "Playboy" Roadster configuration, which was a common practice at the time. As originally conceived, the "Playboy" design brought out the sporting character of the Phantom I, targeting younger, affluent socialites with its lowered bodylines and comparatively lighter construction. The transformation not only enhanced drivability but established the car among the rarest and most sporting American-bodied Phantom Is of the period.

Documentation from the Rolls-Royce Foundation confirms a known chain of ownership from new through December 1985, when it was acquired by David L. Coffin of Sunapee, New Hampshire. Under his stewardship, a comprehensive restoration was completed in 1997, returning the Phantom to concours-level presentation. Thereafter, the car appeared at RROC concours events and was invited to the 2002 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.

In early 2005, the Phantom entered the noted collection of Jim and Marion Caldwell of Toms River, New Jersey, inaugurating a distinguished series of competitive appearances. Between 2005 and 2008, it secured multiple First Place awards with both the AACA and CCCA, including Senior and Grand National honors. Additional awards included Best in Class at Radnor Hunt (2005) and Amelia Island (2007), Most Distinguished Rolls-Royce at Greenwich (2008), and Third in Class at Pebble Beach Concours (2008). Later in 2013, it was awarded Best in Class European at the St. Michaels Concours d'Elegance.

Subsequently acquired by Jil and John Shibles of Sea Girt, New Jersey, the Phantom made its third appearance at the prestigious 72nd Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in 2023. It has resided in the current owner's respected collection since February 2024 and remains eligible for numerous events with the CCCA, RROC, and other premier concours and touring organizations.