The first post-war Cadillacs appeared in late 1945 and were virtually identical to those manufactured before the onset of war. Demand for all automobiles was so high that buyers were given very little choice as to what they wanted, and companies like Cadillac produced only single versions of a model, knowing that they could sell whatever they produced. As a result, nearly 90 percent of 1947 Cadillacs had the smart Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. While these new cars were priced about $200 higher than the 1946 model, they adopted subtle styling cues, such as the “sombrero” wheel covers and additional badges and scripts.

The bread and butter of the Cadillac line remained its Series 62, the mid-level model with modern styling, clean lines, and a strong Cadillac identity; for many, it was what they thought of when “the Standard of the World” came to mind. Interiors were well-appointed with the latest features and luxurious broadcloth or leather upholstery, and Cadillac’s well-proven 346-cubic inch V-8 was reassuringly tucked away under that massive hood. Strong, quiet, and reliable, these cars accounted for Cadillac’s ever-expanding reputation among luxury car buyers during the immediate post-war era.

This particular Series 62 Convertible Coupe has been a rather special car for Richard and Linda Kughn, who acquired it in 1987, sometime after the restored car earned its National First Place honors from the Antique Automobile Club of America. It has remained a fixture in Mr. and Mrs. Kughn’s collection ever since, spending many years on display at their popular Detroit museum, Carail, until the museum’s closure in 2003.

As a well-maintained and properly cared for older restoration, the car remains in extremely good condition, with its Antoinette Blue paint still deep and shining and the interior without wear, aside from gentle creasing of the upholstery. In general, only minor wear is found throughout. It is well-equipped with full “sombrero” wheel covers, windshield-mounted Cadillac spotlights, a back-up lamp, an AM radio, power windows, a power top, and rear fender skirts.

Having been shown at the CCCA Grand Classic in 1987, garnering a 3rd Primary Award at 96.50 points, this Cadillac was freshened for the Kughns 22 years later and returned to the Grand Classic, this time scoring 99.25 points and receiving its 1st Senior honors. That is a mark to the car’s quality and to its well-loved place within the collection from which it is today being sold.