1941 Lincoln Zephyr

To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys The Hershey Auction event, 7 - 8 October 2026.
Offered Without Reserve $60,000 - $80,000 USD

• One of only 972 coupes produced for 1941
• Striking Streamline Moderne styling with the highly desirable, numbers-matching, three-window coupe body
• Well-preserved older cosmetic restoration finished in elegant black over tan broadcloth
• Powered by Lincolns celebrated 292-cid L-head V-12 engine
• Accompanied by a copy of its original build record from The Henry Ford

Few American automobiles better capture the spirit of the Streamline Moderne movement than the Lincoln Zephyr. Introduced as one of the most daring pre-war automotive designs, the Zephyr abandoned the upright formality of traditional luxury cars in favor of sweeping curves, integrated fenders, and a remarkably aerodynamic profile. It was a bold expression of modern design that not only revitalized Lincoln during the waning years of the Great Depression but also created one of the most enduring styling icons in American automotive history.

By 1941, the Zephyr had reached the height of its development. A wider, more commanding grille, carefully refined bodywork, and improved fit and finish gave the model an even greater sense of sophistication. Beneath its sculpted hood, Lincolns smooth and dependable 292-cubic-inch L-head V-12 was renowned for its effortless power delivery and refinement. Independent front suspension and chassis tuning made for excellent road manners, delivering a driving experience that matched its advanced styling.

Among the Zephyrs six body styles, the three-window coupe is widely regarded as the most dramatic. Its exceptionally long hood flows uninterrupted into a gracefully descending roofline and neatly integrated rear deck, creating one of the most elegant silhouettes of the Classic Era. More than 80 years after its introduction, the design remains every bit as captivating as when it first appeared.

This Zephyr Coupe completed production on 24 January 1941 and shipped the same day to Van Etta Motors in California, according to a copy of its original build record from The Henry Ford. It benefits from a well-preserved older cosmetic restoration that beautifully highlights the models sculptural bodywork. The elegant black finish accentuates the flowing contours and dramatic proportions that made the Zephyr revolutionary. Inside, tan broadcloth provides a handsome contrast, while the faux woodgrain dashboard, with its distinctive instrument panel centered around a large circular binnacle, reflects the Art Deco and Streamline Moderne influences of the period.

An enduring milestone in American automotive design, the 1941 Lincoln Zephyr Coupe seamlessly combines engineering sophistication with timeless design. Offered in its most dramatic body style and accompanied by its original build record, this rare V-12 Lincoln, with numbers-matching chassis and body, represents one of the finest expressions of Streamline Moderne design on an American pre-war classic.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/auctions/hf26/.