Following its “Ferrari – Leggenda e Passione” single-marque sale in Maranello, Italy, RM Sotheby’s is turning focus to another segment of the collector car hobby; important American Brass, Classic and post-War automobiles, at the top antique car enthusiast gathering of the year — Hershey. Set for October 5-6, during the Antique Automobile Club of America’s internationally attended Eastern Regional Fall Meet, RM Sotheby’s 11th annual Hershey Sale will feature 140 cars and motorcycles along with a selection of memorabilia at The Hershey Lodge in Hershey, Pennsylvania.
The sale will feature the Thomas F. Derro Collection, an enticing group of cars offered entirely without reserve, along with an exceptional selection of desirable American Classics from some of the most prominent collections in the country.
Foremost among the highlights will be a 1936 Cadillac V16 Convertible Sedan by Fleetwood, engine no. 51102222 (above, Erik Fuller photo courtesy of RM Sothebys), one of the very finest late first-generation examples in existence. One of just six built for the model year, the car was gifted to the Chicago Museum of Science & Industry in 1949 — then holders of perhaps the most impressive antique automobile collection in the country — where it was displayed until 2008 when acquired by its current owner. Remaining in highly original condition, it received a sympathetic concours-quality full restoration, including a refinishing in its stunning original Phantom Metallic color, with a proper interior in the correct leather. Exhibited selectively since 2008 — including a class award at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance — it presents an opportunity to own one of the most famous Cadillac V16s.
Additional great American Classics on offer include three of the rarest and most desirable configurations of the Packard Twelve. Leading the group is a beautifully restored 1933 Packard Twelve Convertible Victoria, vehicle no. 647-25, one of just four surviving Tenth Series examples. Also up for bids is a sporty 1934 Packard Twelve 2/4-Passenger Coupe, chassis no. 902316, one of only eight authentic examples known to exist today. Retaining its original body, engine and chassis, the Coupe is offered with a fascinating provenance — including chauffeuring the actress Jayne Mansfield in the 1961 Indianapolis 500 Parade. Completing the group is a 1935 Packard Twelve Sport Phaeton, vehicle no. 821-202, offered from a well-known connoisseur of classic Packards. One of just four examples produced for 1935, the Sport Phaeton is offered at Hershey with known history from new, and presented with a well-preserved restoration and in superb driving order.
“This year’s sale has all of the outstanding, interesting and desired classic cars one would anticipate seeing at our Hershey auction,” says Gord Duff, Global Head of Auctions, RM Sotheby’s. “A mainstay of our calendar and as much an auction destination for many enthusiasts as Pebble Beach or Monterey, we look forward to an always eventful and entertaining week at Hershey. Wet or dry, rain or shine, it’s where the die-hard enthusiasts come to play.”
Representing an entirely different passion for the American automobile, the Hershey auction will also present six cars from the collection of the late Ralph Whitworth, the country’s foremost collector of hot rods and customs. The group is highlighted by the 1932 Ford “Pete Henderson” Roadster, the car that famously outran a quarter horse in 1944. As the story goes, a guy with a quick quarter horse won countless bets challenging hot cars to a race. The Pete Henderson Roadster, however, had a reputation as the quickest car in California’s San Fernando Valley. With Pete behind the wheel, in a specially staged race held in nearby La Habra that was witnessed by a large crowd, this Deuce became the only car that ever beat the horse.
As a proud supporter of the AACA, RM Sotheby’s will offer a 1971 Fiat 850 Spider at this year’s Hershey sale, with all proceeds to benefit the AACA Library & Research Center and the fantastic resources they provide enthusiasts free of charge. Not only is the 850 Spider a late-production model with the most powerful engine available, but the lucky winning bidder will also find an undisclosed amount of cash in the car’s trunk, just to sweeten the deal. This offering is made possible by longtime friends of RM Sotheby’s and the AACA, Joseph and Margie Cassini, Wayne Carini and Ralph Marano.
For further information please visit www.rmsothebys.com
