As many of the country’s top automakers were filing for bankruptcy during the height of the Great Depression, Cadillac, with the full might of General Motors behind it, introduced a fully redesigned lineup for the 1934 model year. The new cars possessed a host of both stylistic and technological updates, including novel Streamline Moderne design, which focused on concealing all chassis features save for the wheels. Notable cues included teardrop Guide Multibeam headlamps, airfoil-shaped front and rear fenders swooping low over the chassis, as well as a sloping windshield and rear deck. Overall, the bodies were two inches lower than the 1933 models, imparting a significantly sleeker appearance.

Such was the success of these new models that Cadillac chose to change almost nothing for 1935, the year in which this Series 355-D V-8 Convertible Sedan rolled off the assembly line. As confirmed by a copy of its build sheet on file, this exquisite example was custom ordered new through Capitol Cadillac of Washington, D.C. for use in the 1935 Shriners International Convention, which took place in the capital on 7 June 1935. Copies of numerous period photographs showing Head Shriner, Imperial Potentate Dana S. Williams, riding in this car during the convention accompany the sale.

Well-appointed and stunningly finished, the car wears dazzling red paint over tan leather upholstery with a matching tan fabric convertible top. Riding on proper 17-inch beige painted wheels with red disc covers and wide whitewall tires, it also wears the ultimate period option of dual side-mounted spare tires with covers. Since being acquired by the consignor, the car received comprehensive mechanical refurbishment, including a full engine rebuild replete with a new clutch and radiator core.

Recognized by the Classic Car Club of America as a Full Classic, this well sorted open Cadillac will be equally at home on a parade route or competitive concours field.