1955 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn Lightweight by H.J. Mulliner

This 1955 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn Lightweight by H.J. Mulliner stands as both the sole example of its kind produced and the final Silver Dawn chassis built, LSVJ133. Constructed to Design No. 7243 with hand-formed aluminum coachwork, it occupies a unique place in Rolls-Royce history. The car was further described as a notable and previously unknown example in marque expert Lawrence Dalton’s ‘The Elegance Continues’ (1971), cementing its status as an extraordinary one-off, blending bespoke craftsmanship with significant provenance.

Commissioned new for the Bowes Builder Corporation of Denver, Colorado, this left-hand-drive example was shipped from Southampton, England to New York aboard the Queen Elizabeth II on May 12,1955. Refinished in its original two-tone Black Pearl over Shell Gray paint, the beautifully proportioned saloon features razor-edge styling and a factory sliding metal sunroof. Power is provided by a 4.6-liter inline six-cylinder engine paired with an automatic transmission. Smiths instruments currently display an odometer reading of 37,681 miles.

The interior is trimmed in supple Cream Connolly leather and accented by rich burl wood veneers. Rear passengers enjoy folding picnic tables, while a bespoke picnic set—complete with lunchbox, plates, thermos, and matching silverware—is concealed within a sliding compartment in the driver’s door. A crystal decanter with three shot glasses is similarly housed in the front passenger door, and a six-piece fitted luggage accompanies the sale. An aftermarket Blaupunkt AM/FM/cassette stereo sits discreetly below the center dash.

Restored to original specifications in 1987 at a cost exceeding $119k, the car presents today with remarkable authenticity and presence. It is accompanied by a copy of its handwritten “Certicard,” factory works specifications, ledger documentation confirming LSVJ133 as the final Silver Dawn chassis produced, and is further referenced in Bernard King’s ‘Silver Dawn & Silver Wraith’ (1998). Offered with its original handbook and full complement of tools, this one-of-one Silver Dawn Lightweight represents a rare opportunity to acquire a definitive postwar Rolls-Royce. 

 

 

 

Made to order for The Bowes Builder Corporation of Denver, Colorado, this Rolls-Royce was shipped new on the Queen Elizabeth II ocean liner from Southampton, England to New York in May of 1955. Restored to original specifications in 1987 with invoices totaling over $119k, the car remains in well-sorted running, driving condition. 

 

Sotheby's Motorsport presents this auction in partnership with the seller. This 1955 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn Lightweight by H.J. Mulliner shows wear consistent with its age, mileage, and restored condition according to a Seller's Disclosure. Please review the entire document by clicking "Seller's Disclosure" above. 

 

Please click the “Contact Seller” button to reach out with any condition-specific questions. This car is sold where-is, as-is, and bidder is responsible for all due diligence regarding vehicle condition.