High Bid: $ 24,000

Little did Ford Motor Company executives realize in 1948 that the all-new and soon- to-be released 1949 Mercury models would, almost instantly, become a favorite of car enthusiasts and customizers everywhere. Californians, especially Sam Barris, were the first to discover how this Mercury’s ideal proportions and modern styling lent themselves so well to chopping, channeling, lowering, and other custom techniques. James Dean would later drive a black 1949 Mercury in the 1950s classic film “Rebel Without a Cause” that was nosed, decked and lowered. Custom Mercs were quite common during the era, but following the film, the “lost generation” of teenagers in the 1950s saw the Mercury as a bold symbol of the times. Originally advertised as “Not a new model” but rather, “…the All- New Mercury,” it was completely re-engineered and equipped with independent front suspension. Stylistically, the basic Mercury body design was taken from the latest Lincoln, rather than the newest Ford. Not just a poser, there were plenty of aftermarket performance parts available for the venerable “Flathead” Ford V-8 and on the track, Mercury captured a pair of NASCAR victories in 1951, enhancing the marque’s growing performance image. The Monterey two-door “post” coupe debuted for 1950 and with its vinyl roof coverings and leather upholstery, it defended Mercury’s upscale market position by providing an alternative to competing hardtop models from Chrysler and GM until the 1952 models arrived. This gorgeous 1951 Mercury 4-door sedan continues to clearly benefit from a meticulous and total rotisserie restoration performed by Ronald Smith in Canada, with virtually no possible expense spared in the restoration of this vehicle. The car is highlighted by a $20,000 paint job with the chrome and accessories in excellent condition. Unique features of this model include the striking aircraft cockpit-inspired dash and control levers and the rear-hinged “suicide” style rear doors. The commodious interior is trimmed in proper striped wool broadcloth upholstery and desirable features include a steel sun visor, tri-bar “spinner” hubcaps, and a very well-detailed engine bay complete with period components. Reported by the consignor to run and drive very well, the Mercury is offered complete with a Mercury chassis parts catalogue.