Rolls-Royce’s Phantom V represented the end of an era, as it would be the company’s final traditional limousine model, widely produced with coachwork outside the company’s purview—most prominently by James Young of Bromley, Kent. Among the roster of bodies proffered for the chassis was James Young’s design number PV15, a traditional limousine drawn for a capacious passenger compartment, with its lines somewhat lightened by the stylist’s deft pen incorporating flowing fender lines and a “turtledeck” rear. For many it was the very image of a classic Rolls-Royce.

Chassis number 5LVD21, offered here, was ordered through the prominent New York dealers J.S. Inskip by George J. Stewart, chairman of the brokerage firm Stewart Smith & Company at 116 John Street in New York City. Finished in dark green with beige interior, the car was built to a fairly standard specification, including Windtone horns, electric radio aerial, and a speedometer in miles per hour, although it was noted that special longer windshield wiper blades were required—apparently found in Aeromic brand. The rear compartment was outfitted with ducted air conditioning, footrests, and pencil beam reading lights, and is today complete with a push-button radio in the armrest.

Ownership records held by the Rolls-Royce Foundation indicate that by 1970 the car was in executive use with O’Donnel-Usen Fisheries of Boston, then later that year was acquired by the prolific early trader in vintage and performance automobiles, Ed Jurist of The Vintage Car Store in Nyack, New York. Reportedly the car was restored by noted Rolls-Royce specialists Carriage House Motorcars in the late 1980s, in its original livery, with a correct replacement engine and transmission fitted at that time. On static display within the present collection for some years, it now exhibits significant weathering to many of its finishes, although the interior has held up quite well, and would likely require some service before regular use.

A Phantom V remains one of the grandest motoring opportunities, and this is no exception.