By 1935, the high-end car market had all but disappeared. With the world gripped by the most serious economic depression of all time, most could no longer afford such luxuries. Even those that were still able to buy fine automobiles felt it was inappropriate to spend such huge sums when so many were suffering. As a result, most of the great manufacturers were either bankrupt or nearly so. Lincoln would be one of the few survivors, due to the support of the Ford Motor Company. Edsel Ford retained a strong interest in these cars, and he actively supported the great designers of the time with commissions on Lincoln chassis.

LeBaron’s Convertible Roadster was built on a shortened, sportier 135-inch-wheelbase Model K chassis, and only 30 examples were produced. At a price of $4,600 each, they were reserved for only the wealthiest buyers. It is believed that fewer than 10 remain in existence today.

The Convertible Roadster offered here was the 12th produced, shipped on 4 March 1935, per its factory build record, a copy of which is on file. Some years later it was fitted with the present engine—number KB3446—a 1934 KB unit very similar to the original. The car was formerly owned by the late Peter Prater of Nashville, Tennessee, and in his ownership continued to be regularly shown in various events. Displayed at a Classic Car Club of America Grand Classic in 1984, it was later somewhat epically driven by Prater on the famous cross-country Great Race in 1991, finishing second in the Sportsman division.

At one point wearing bright yellow paint, the Lincoln was cosmetically restored anew during the late 2010s in its very attractive current color scheme of deep maroon over a tan leather interior, which greatly suits its dramatic and elegant lines. Numerous correct options and accessories accentuate the presentation, including the prominent Guide Super Ray fog lights, dual side mirrors, and an AM radio.

More recently part of a prominent Western collection of CCCA Full Classics, the Lincoln still presents beautifully throughout and would be worthy of any similar stable. It is certainly one of very few surviving Model K Convertible Roadsters, and one of fewer still to have been finished to this exceptional standard with such an interesting history. It could be enjoyed at any number of shows and concours, or sorted further to enjoy in CCCA CARavans and, of course, Antique Automobile Club of America events in the coming months and years.