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185 of 170 lots
Lot 185
1961 Lincoln Continental Convertible
Estimate:
$140,000 - $180,000
Starting bid:
$25
Sold for
$250,000
Live Auction
Pebble Beach Auctions 2023
Description
Without Reserve

Chassis: 1Y86H420180

The First Year of Lincoln’s Landmark Design
A Well-Equipped Convertible with Factory Air-Conditioning
Stunning Presentation Throughout in Ideal Color Combination
Restored to Extremely High Standards Resulting in an AACA Senior First Place Award
Prime Example of a Significant Mid-Century American Design

430 CID OHV V-8 Engine
Single Carter 2-Barrel Carburetor
300 BHP at 4,100 RPM
3-Speed Automatic Transmission
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
Front Independent Suspension with Coil Springs
Rear Live Axle with Semi-Elliptical Leaf Springs

Few automobiles capture contemporary American style as well as the 1960s-era Lincoln Continental. Its compact, timeless styling ran contrary to the oversized luxury-car conventions of the time, appealing to a younger audience in spite of a price tag well above its competitors. Presented here is an exquisite example of the first year of that landmark design in rare, four-door, convertible guise – one of just 2,857 built for the 1961 model year. Its Presidential Black paintwork shows off the lithe, minimalist design to its best advantage, with the blade-like fender peaks capped by chrome moldings. The center-opening doors provide easy access to the interior, finished in striking red leather with optional walnut trim applied to the dashboard and door panels. A single control activates the lowering of the convertible top into the trunk well, concealed by the rear-deck lid, for an equally attractive appearance with the top lowered. Beautifully restored, it received a Senior First Place award at the 2017 AACA National Southeastern Spring Meet in Charlotte, North Carolina.

A design icon, the Lincoln Continental was America’s last convertible sedan, and examples built in its inaugural year are the most coveted today. This 1961 Lincoln Continental Convertible combines the traditional Lincoln virtues of beauty, luxury, and exclusivity, presented in fanatically restored condition, and finished in a stunning color combination. Challenging to duplicate, its next owner can look forward to enjoying a superb example of mid-century American motordom.