1934 was a watershed year for GM’s successful LaSalle division that CEO Alfred P. Sloan had positioned as a more affordable companion brand to Cadillac. Modern technical innovations included hydraulic brakes and independent front suspension, but it was the completely new, streamlined design awash with modern Art Deco-style details that set the new model apart. Bullet-style headlights were mounted directly to the narrow radiator shell and were flanked by pontoon-like fenders, while the low windshield, domed circular hood vents, and concealed spare made a bold, up-to-date statement. 1934 was also the only year that the now iconic “bi-plane” style bumpers were fitted, with a more traditional bladed type replacing them the following year.

Just 634 examples of the convertible coupe were built and together with the four-passenger coupe, they have become some of the most desirable GM-built cars of the era. According to a copy of its build record on file, the Convertible Coupe offered here was dispatched in April 1934 to Taber Cadillac of Hartford, Connecticut. It was originally finished much as it is today, with Richmond Maroon paint and a black leather interior. The optional Torpedo-type hood ornament and flexible-spoke steering wheel remain in place, as ordered.

Now displaying an honest patina and showing less than 72,000 miles, this LaSalle represents a particularly rare find. Surviving examples are few, seldom traded publicly, and, due to their beautiful period design and brilliantly executed details, reside in some of America’s most important and respected collections.

*Please note that this Lot, like all vehicles in this Auction, has been in long-term static storage and may not be currently operational. It will require mechanical attention prior to any road use.

Gooding & Company presents and conducts the Estate of Mark Smith Auction under the authority of John J. Rendemonti, Executor of the Estate of Mark J. Smith, duly appointed by the Circuit Court of the State of New Hampshire, Probate Division, Case Number 312-2022-ET-00072. The Estate has compiled available title and/or registration paperwork for the Vehicles offered in the Auction and will provide such paperwork to the Buyer if it is available. However, as set forth more fully in the Conditions of Sale, neither the Estate nor Gooding makes any representation or warranty with respect to any existing certificate of title or registration with regard to any Lot in the Auction. Any Lot may be sold on a Bill of Sale. By participating in this Auction, all bidders and buyers recognize that Estate and Gooding have expressly disclaimed all such warranties concerning the availability or sufficiency of any title or registration documentation.