A jaunty machine typical of the original “Little Rolls-Royce,” this 20 HP model, chassis no. GA41, was delivered on 11 February 1923 to A.C. Nivison, Esq., of Branch Hill Lodge in Hampstead, fitted with handsome doctor’s coupe coachwork by Arthur Mulliner. A classic British style, the doctor’s coupe could also be referred to as a drophead coupe, as it features a rather complex folding convertible top with a folding frame and removable window pillars, and a “dickey seat” for two.

The car was acquired from R.G. Sloan by Jay and Berta Leon in 1975, via an advertisement in Motor Sport, with receipts and notes on file for various mechanical and cosmetic repairs early in their ownership. “The yellow Rolls has become a heavy favorite,” Mr. Leon wrote Mr. Sloan, “and many an afternoon when we choose a car for a ride, invariably my wife will prefer to take out your former car.” In May 1979 it scored 94 out of 100 points in Rolls-Royce Owners Club judging. In 2004, Berta Leon-Hackney exhibited the car as part of the Rolls-Royce centennial celebrations at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

Today the Rolls-Royce presents in older restored condition, with considerable wear and patina to the Lonsdale Yellow paint and black leather interior; the leather top is in fair condition, while the nickel brightwork has a fine, warm patina. The engine and drivetrain were restored at the same time as the bodywork and the wear is commensurate, with many of the engine components painted the same yellow as the body. The odometer noted 60,188 miles at the time of cataloguing, and the car is offered with a history file relating to its acquisition and an original manual.

This would be a lovely “Little Rolls” to recondition and enjoy this coming year.