The 1968 model year brought a slew of changes to the Jaguar E-Type prompted by impending changes to US emissions and safety standards. One of the most significant design-related alterations was the loss of glass covered headlamps in favor of raised, chrome-rimmed open units. As the body panel dies were changed at the Coventry factory, a select grouping of late Series 1 E-Types received open headlight body panels destined for the Series 2 cars. Referred to by Jaguar marque enthusiasts, but never officially by Jaguar itself, as “Series 1.25” and then “Series 1.5” models as the updates progressed, these cars retained all the previous generation’s attributes while receiving the new generation’s appearance.

Completed in May 1967, this unique “Series 1.25” is presented just as it left the Coventry factory, in Opalescent Maroon over what is said to be its original black leather interior. Likely one of the most well documented E-Types offered for sale, the car is accompanied by its original window sticker and car invoice confirming delivery through Jaguar Cars for Auto Engineering, Inc. in Lexington, Massachusetts.

Dean Edmunds, a physicist whose name is etched on the Wall of Honor at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington D.C., was the car’s first owner. So enamored was he with his new purchase, Mr. Edmunds obtained permission to personally receive his E-Type at the New Jersey docks and drive it back to Auto Engineering for its pre-delivery inspection. Once in his possession, he would meticulously maintain it for the next 54 years, accruing just over 7,200 miles during that time.

In 2004, despite its stunningly low mileage, Mr. Edmunds commissioned a full restoration of his beloved Jaguar. Manfred’s Automotive of Naples, Florida performed a bare-metal repaint in factory-correct Opalescent Maroon, overhauled all mechanical and electrical aspects, and fitted new carpeting and a convertible soft-top. The original black leather seats are said to have been retained.

Likely ranking among the most well-documented, lowest-mileage examples of its type in existence, including a Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust certificate, this beautifully presented, highly authentic E-Type with unique “Series 1.25” specification is sure to headline any British automotive gathering.