Ford declared “E-Day” on 4 September 1957 to announce its all-new Edsel line. Celebrations across a network of Edsel-exclusive dealerships featured promotions from an all-new sales and marketing organization. “They’ll know you’ve arrived when you drive up in the 1958 Edsel, the car that’s truly new, from nameplate to taillights!” crowed the baritone announcer in one of many enthusiastic television commercials. Such was the hype behind the Edsel that it was touted as a completely new experience in motoring. In reality, designer Roy Brown created a pastiche of themes old and new, including a classical upright grille, yet fenders shorn of the then-trendy tailfins. Engineers incorporated such features as Teletouch Drive, in which the automatic transmission was operated from buttons in the steering wheel hub, and a “rolling dome” speedometer.

That the result landed with the public like a lead balloon is now part of Detroit lore, with the Edsel remembered as a colossal failure that reshaped how American cars were planned and sold. Yet this ignores that the Edsel really was different in its looks, and underneath was still a well-engineered, solidly built, and very good automobile. Today it is widely considered one of the most famous American cars of its era, supported by a very active worldwide club of fans.

The most prestigious of the original 1958 Edsels was the Citation Convertible, of which just 930 were built. This example is said to have been restored in 1994, finished in Frost White with Turquoise scallops and a white convertible top. It rides on whitewall tires mounted on steel wheels with factory spinner wheel covers. The exterior features dual sideview mirrors, dual antennas, and an extended rear bumper to accommodate the continental kit. The Citation is powered by a 345-horsepower, 410-cubic-inch V-8 engine backed by a three-speed automatic transmission with Teletouch. Power equipment includes power steering, brakes, windows, and seat, while the two-tone turquoise and white interior features a clock and radio. Notably, this is believed to be one of very few Citation Convertibles equipped with air conditioning.

This Edsel was formerly part of the Tom Gerrard collection, which it entered in March of 1999. In May of 2000, the car achieved a Antique Automobile Club of America National First Junior Award in Winchester, Virginia. A month later in June 2000 the car achieved an AACA National Senior Award in Nashville, Tennessee. Mr. Gerrard sold the car in September of 2011. It later joined Sonny Schwartz’s Suzy Q Collection in October of 2012.

Edsel’s top-of-the-line model for 1958, and one of just 930 built, the Citation Convertible represents a truly special car from a short-lived brand that commemorated Henry Ford’s son.