Few automobiles capture contemporary American style as well as the 1960s-era Lincoln Continental. Its compact, timeless styling ran contrary to the oversized luxury-car conventions of the time, appealing to a younger audience in spite of a price tag well above its competitors. Presented here is an exquisite example of the first year of that landmark design in rare, four-door, convertible guise – one of just 2,857 built for the 1961 model year. Its Presidential Black paintwork shows off the lithe, minimalist design to its best advantage, with the blade-like fender peaks capped by chrome moldings. The center-opening doors provide easy access to the interior, finished in striking red leather with optional walnut trim applied to the dashboard and door panels. A single control activates the lowering of the convertible top into the trunk well, concealed by the rear-deck lid, for an equally attractive appearance with the top lowered. Beautifully restored, it received a Senior First Place award at the 2017 AACA National Southeastern Spring Meet in Charlotte, North Carolina.

A design icon, the Lincoln Continental was America’s last convertible sedan, and examples built in its inaugural year are the most coveted today. This 1961 Lincoln Continental Convertible combines the traditional Lincoln virtues of beauty, luxury, and exclusivity, presented in fanatically restored condition, and finished in a stunning color combination. Challenging to duplicate, its next owner can look forward to enjoying a superb example of mid-century American motordom.