Streamlining its operation in the face of the Great Depression, Lincoln adopted a single new V-12 for both its smaller KA and top-of-the-line KB models in 1934. Enlarged to 414 cu. in. from the KA engine of the year prior, it rode a cruciform double-drop chassis frame, with the two models distinguished largely by their wheelbases: 136 in. for the KA and 145 for the KB.

The other major difference was in available body styles. The KB, as the “ultimate” Lincoln, could be had as a chassis for custom coachwork, but many coachworks took advantage of the “semi-custom” offerings that were produced for Lincoln by the East Coast’s finest custom coachbuilders and catalogued by the factory. Finished to the specifications of each individual customer order, these bodies offered an unbeatable combination of custom quality, style, and individuality, at a price somewhat lower than a “full custom” body.

Among the most attractive “semi-customs” of 1934 was style number 281, a convertible sedan designed by Raymond Dietrich and built by his imprint of Briggs Manufacturing. A distinctive vee’d windshield and convertible top offered open motoring with a speedboat-like flair, and, even with the top raised, a surprising amount of headroom was available, making a comfortable enclosed limousine for all-weather use. Only 25 examples of this style were produced in 1934.

The car offered here comes from a prominent Midwestern collection of twelve-cylinder Lincolns where it has resided for many years. Recently subject to a full mechanical rebuild, it remains otherwise delightfully original, including both the factory-applied paint and interior. Only the original top fabric is missing from the car’s exterior presentation. It would be very rewarding as either a Preservation Class entrant at concours d’elegance, or the solid and intact basis for a complete restoration that would undoubtedly go on to capture many prestigious awards.