If diamonds are a girl’s best friend, then Marilyn Monroe’s 1956 Raven Black Ford Thunderbird would be a friend for all. When it comes to old-school star power, Marilyn Monroe is undoubtedly an icon of the 20th century. Much of what Monroe wore, like the infamous “Happy Birthday dress” that sparkled as she sung to Mr Kennedy, became historic. This time the spotlight is on her personally owned 1956 Raven Black Ford Thunderbird hitting the auction floor next week.
Driven by her, to her own wedding to playwright Arthur Miller in 1956, the stunning black wheels were a gift from her business partner and photographer Milton Greene. “Marilyn liked to drive. We’d take the convertible and with the top down, we’d go sailing along the highway. We both liked to feel the wind in our faces and the warmth of the heater on our legs,” said Amy Greene, wife to Milton and friend of Monroe.
Owned by Monroe for seven years between 1955 to 1962, the famous convertible roadster gave Marilyn a powerful drive with a 225-horsepower V–8 engine. Reaching a top speed of 113 mph, the two-door classic beauty features a canvas top and a detachable hardtop and was direct from the factory. Extra trunk space was enabled by the spare wheel being mounted on the outside.
After her seven-year ownership, Monroe gave it as an 18th birthday gift to the son of her acting coach, Lee Strasberg, believed to be just a few months before her death on August 5th, 1962. The current owner is said to have restored this relic to its original appearance.
With the action set for next week in Los Angeles on November 17, 2018, by Julien’s Auctions, you can grab a slice of history with an expected price tag between USD$300,000 to USD$500,000. For anyone bidding, good luck as I’m sure there will be more than a room full wanting this gem.
Stay dapper.
Robbie – Dapper Lounge.
No Comments