In 1954, with production increased to over 3,000 from the mere 300 produced in the Corvette’s first year of 1953, Chevrolet moved to a renovated factory in St. Louis, Missouri, as they anticipated even higher numbers in the coming years. The increase in production also allowed for an increase in available colors, and Corvettes could now be had in four different varieties, Polo White, Pennant Blue, Sportsman Red, and Black, as well as two interior tones of Red and Beige. Like 1953, all Corvettes were equipped with Chevrolet’s “Blue-Flame” straight six-cylinder engine, which was mated to a two-speed Powerglide transmission.

This example, finished in the iconic Polo White over a Red leather interior, the same color combination featured on all first-year Corvettes, has been part of Mr. Pack’s collection for over 10 years. It is equipped with all of the factory options for that year and even includes its original side curtains. Before being purchased from a resident of Arizona in 2004, this Corvette was previously found in California after having relocated from Kansas in the 1970s. While in California in the 1980s, it was restored to Bloomington Gold standards, according to documentation provided with the car, which also supports that the current odometer reading of 54,463 miles is original.

Overall, the car’s restoration has been well preserved, and it remains a compelling example of the early-generation Corvette. No collection of American icons should be without a “C1,” and this example is worthy of close inspection.