While Packard's flagship Twelve was little changed mechanically for the 1938 Sixteenth Series, its appearance received a sophisticated update. A taller, more formal radiator, gracefully raised front fenders flowing into the side-mounted spare housings, and a rakish, split, V-shaped windshield inspired by the firm's celebrated Dietrich Individual Customs combined to create one of the most elegant Packards of the late Classic Era. Despite these refinements, demand for America's great multi-cylinder luxury cars continued to decline, and just 566 Twelve models were built for 1938, making them exceptionally exclusive both then and now.

According to its reproduction vehicle number plate, this Convertible Victoria, built on the 134-inch-wheelbase Model 1607 chassis, was delivered on 18 August 1938 by the Earle C. Anthony dealership in San Francisco. Over the decades it passed through several distinguished collections, including those of pioneering Packard enthusiast Russ Jackson of Scottsdale, Arizona; the renowned Blackhawk collection of Danville, California; and respected Packard authority Tom Crook, from whom noted collector Henry Petronis acquired the car in 2010. Mr. and Mrs. Petronis subsequently exhibited the Packard at the 2012 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance.

James G. Robinson later acquired the Packard from the Petronis Estate, adding it to his collection of more than 100 automobiles. Representing the pinnacle of Packard's pre-war engineering and design, it stood among the finest American classics in Mr. Robinson's collection. At the time of cataloguing, the odometer displayed just 281 miles since restoration.

Beautifully appointed, the Packard is equipped with the iconic cormorant mascot, deluxe steering wheel, factory radio, heater, luggage rack, and dual side-mounted spares with covers. Finished in handsome Berkshire Green over a biscuit tan interior with a matching tan cloth top, the older restoration completed during the Petronis’ ownership presents remarkably well considering its age, showing only light signs of careful use.

Accompanied by a top boot, shop manual, and reproduction owner's manual, this Convertible Victoria combines elegant styling, distinguished provenance, and Packard's incomparable V-12 refinement, placing it among the most desirable American classics of the late 1930s.