In 1953, Chevrolet gave birth to “America’s Sports Car,” the Corvette. The futuristic design of the first-generation Corvette was a sensation when new, and early examples are highly coveted and collectible. All 1953 Corvettes and an estimated majority of 1954 and 1955 models produced were painted Polo White. Only 300 1954 Corvettes came from the factory finished in the highly desirable Pennant Blue, as this car is. The elegant beige interior was available only with this exterior color.

Adding to that rarity, this example is a late-production 1954 car, finished later in the run of 3,640 produced. Corvettes produced in the latter half of 1954 received an upgraded camshaft, allowing the triple-carbureted Blue Flame six-cylinder engine to produce 155 hp.

Beginning in fall 1993, a high-quality restoration was performed and documented in a photo album that accompanies the car. Also accompanying the Corvette are side curtains and an original manual. This car was chosen by the editors of the Robb Report to be showcased in the magazine’s “Design Portfolio” feature in its September 2001 issue.

A first-generation Corvette is an important part of any postwar American car collection. Finding one in this condition, combined with its sought after and rare color scheme, makes this Corvette an exceptional find.