1950 ROLLS-ROYCE SILVER WRAITH - BARN FIND!
The Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith was introduced in 1946, and produced for a mere six years. During this time it is reported that only 1,144 standard wheelbase Silver Wraiths were produced, only 26 of which were fitted with the rear/front glass division. We are led to beleive, only 7 of these 26 special order Wraiths have survived to this day. Consequently, this is an extremely rare and sought after model.
Enjoying a seven-inch longer wheelbase than its Bentley MKVI sibling, the newcomer was based around a massive, box-section chassis equipped with independent front suspension, hydraulic shock absorbers (adjustable to the rear) and four-wheel drum brakes. Powered by a smooth 4257cc six-cylinder engine allied to four-speed manual transmission, the model appealed to both owner-drivers and passengers alike. On the rare occasion fully restored examples come up for auction, they command impressive prices.
The example pictured here was originally ordered to coincide with the 1950 E.C. Motorshow Show. As for the stylish four door sports saloon body, this was hand crafted by the renowned coachbuilder James Young.
The original registration assigned to this classic was WHD 96, which was later changed to JNJ 18 which is included in the sale. This has been valued at over £7,500.
Mechanically, this Rolls-Royce is in superb condition and starts on the key. As regards the bodywork, this has been totally stripped and only requires light restoration prior to paint. However, apart from the inherent desirability of this rare Silver Wraith model, it also has note worthy provenance increasing its desirability considerably. During its life it has been owned by the Johnson and Johnson family, hence the registration change to JNJ 18. In 1963, ownership then changed to His Grace The Duke of Wellington, whose signature remains on the original log book.
Complete with many original documents, copies of which are included in the sale, are held in the Rolls-Royce enthusiasts club archives. Complete with servicing receipts, original log book, old MOTs, original hand book, current V5 and numerous photographs this is truly a rare find. A superb restoration project
