A 1951 Cadillac convertible custom-built for Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip has been sold at auction for £162,000. The vehicle was used during a 33-day tour of Canada that year, undertaken on behalf of King George VI, who was recuperating following lung surgery.
The tour, which provided the future queen and her husband with firsthand experience of royal duties, took place just months before King George VI’s death in February 1952. The car was specially commissioned by General Motors for the couple’s use during the trip and featured a unique clear bubble-top enclosure. This design allowed the public unobstructed views of the royal passengers throughout the journey.
The sale was conducted by Barrett-Jackson Auctioneers in Las Vegas and was made on behalf of a private collector. Representatives described the vehicle as symbolizing a significant moment in history, marking the final period of Princess Elizabeth’s life before her accession to the throne the following year.