For Sale at Auction: 1956 Continental Mark II in Carmel, California

Chassis No. C5601449

As is well known, the Continental Mark II debuted as a bold statement of luxury and style, crafted to rival the finest cars in the world. Produced under Ford Motor Company's exclusive Continental division, the Mark II embodied elegance with its timeless design, complete with its signature simulated rear spare. Nearing $10,000, it was the most expensive American car of its time, simultaneously ensuring exclusivity and a bevy of custom features.

Every detail of the Mark II reflected masterful craftsmanship. The finest leathers were sourced from Bridge of Weir, Scotland, where hides were hand-combed, kneaded, and "antiqued" to achieve remarkable softness and strength. Only one in every hundred hides met the Mark II's exacting standards. With its 126-inch wheelbase and nearly 5,200-pound frame, the Mark II offered a driving experience as refined as its design, blending aristocratic modernity with understated luxury.

According to the Continental Mark II Database, chassis number 1449 was originally ordered in Deep Bronze over an interior with seat biscuits in Medium Beige leather, bolsters in White leather, and welts in Medium Beige leather. The Continental Mark II was so well equipped that it was only available with a single option: air conditioning. According to the new vehicle invoice, chassis number C5601449 was specified with the $548 feature. A scan of the Continental Mark II's Production Order records that it was delivered through H. Azell Morris Lincoln-Mercury of Springfield, Missouri at a total dealer cost of $8,133.78.

Prior registrations show that by 1959 the rare Continental Mark II was under the stewardship of Marsha Murphy in Beverly Hills, California. By 2012, Larry Zimmer of Shamong, New Jersey sold the Mark II to Jim Allman of Lindon, Utah. Restoration receipts reveal that Allman conducted restorative work on his new Continental throughout 2012 and 2013.

Later entering the highly regarded Casa Bella Macchina Collection based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, this pinnacle of American-made luxury and opulence of the 1950s is finished in its original colors and offered with factory documentation and restoration receipts. This Continental Mark II presents a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most exclusive and finely crafted American automobiles of the postwar era. A true high-water mark of mid-century opulence, it today represents a compelling value for what was conceived as the ultimate American luxury car.