June 4, 2006 It’s the classic modern myth – an original and usually priceless car unearthed in a barn fifty years after it was hidden there. Well that’s close to the scenario of this remarkably original 1939 Lagonda V12 Drophead Coupe that will go under the hammer at auction in the UK next month. Fresh from its dry hiding place, it sports the original push-button radio, the correct period lights and wire wheels and is showing just 50,112 miles on the odometer.
Finished in blue with brown leather upholstery, the car has remained with the same family since the mid ‘60s. The current owner has vivid memories of being driven to school in it by his father, shortly after which it was put into storage. The brightwork still shows traces of the grease that was applied at the time and the hood has never been lowered in the 40 years that the family has owned the car!
The car is complete and ripe for restoration. Indeed, despite its lengthy lack of use, the engine still turns freely.
The Lagonda is estimated to fetch between £40,000 and £50,000 at H&H’s upcoming Buxton, Derbyshire, UK (July 25/26) sale.