While much of Studebaker’s era-defining design remained the same for 1952, all models received a new front end, marking the end of the distinctive “bullet nose” first seen in 1950. A lower horizontal grill blended at the center into a V-shape, with vertical bars lined up below like a row of teeth. The headlights, meanwhile, were now hooded. Long-running Champion and Commander lines persisted as the two major offerings, distinguished by an inline-six in the former and a V-8 in the latter. Various two- and four-door body styles were available across both lines. A three-speed manual transmission with column-mounted shifter was standard on all models.

This Studebaker Commander State Convertible is one of just 1,715 produced for the model year, making it the second rarest of all Commander body styles offered in 1952. Finished in a brilliant shade of red, the interior is particularly attractive with its fresh two-tone upholstery and black carpeting. The convertible top continues the contrasting color scheme with black canvas and a red boot cover.

Numerous factory options dress up the exterior and interior. Some of the highlights include a Stratoline eight-tube pushbutton radio, dash-mounted and exterior rearview mirrors, deluxe steering wheel, grill and trunk guards, full wheel covers, exhaust deflector, backup lights, fog lights, and front door armrests. The 232-cubic-inch V-8 was factory rated at 120 horsepower when new.

A supremely charming automobile and a dazzling encapsulation of 1950s Americana, this Studebaker Commander Convertible is highly attractive with its eye-catching color scheme, many factory options, and V-8 engine.