It is an unusual paradox: the automobile that is the most popular when new is often the hardest to find today, usually because they were once so common that they were not considered worth saving. Such is the truth of the early Chrysler products; almost all are rare, since so few survived the Great Depression and World War II’s scrap drives. Especially so, however, are the early four-cylinder models, of which this 1926 Model F-58 is a fine example. Riding a relatively short chassis with spacious Budd all-steel bodywork, it has an appearance that can only be called cute.

Notes left by Mr. Roy indicate that this charming little Chrysler was once part of the well-known collection of Paul Stern, a onetime Chrysler dealer and avid collector of the company’s products in Manheim, Pennsylvania. Mr. Stern was known for his focus on unusual and seldom-seen models, of which the 1926 four-cylinder Coach is certainly one. It is unknown when the car was sold from the Stern Collection, but it eventually made its way into the ownership of Leland Winstian, of Cressona, Pennsylvania, and was acquired from him by Mr. Roy in 2005.

The Chrysler is an older restoration, well preserved and ideal for driving. The paint has a nice patina and would respond well to cleaning and polishing, while the synthetic leather top covering and leather interior are in good condition. Such rare original features as the winged radiator mascot, the single rear-mounted spare, and the dual cowl lights are intact and original, as are the gauges in the dashboard, with the odometer recording 229 miles since restoration. Original tags and labels are present throughout, including the original Fedco serial number plate on the dashboard. The restoration appears to have been a largely cosmetic job on a good original car, as the finishes under the hood appear not to have been touched.

Ideal for a burgeoning collector, or as a rare piece for a larger collection, this is an attractive little automobile with abundant personality and grace.