1929 Erskine Model 52 Sedan

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

Huntsville, Alabama — or “Rocket City,” as we know it — is home to NASA rocket-propulsion research and development. Nothing quite encapsulates the launch and excitement of the region as this out-of-world collection of cars including movie cars and tributes, desirable classics, and a rocket truck itself. 3… 2… 1… These cars are ready for blastoff, and all will be launched to new homes and garages as all lots are presented with NO RESERVE.   

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The Erskine brand was created by Studebaker in 1926, named after the company's president, Albert Russel Erskine, with the goal to produce a smaller, more affordable car that could compete in both the American and European markets. It was marketed as "The Little Aristocrat," a term that emphasized the car's stylish design and well-appointed interior.  

Following in the footsteps of Model 50 and 51, Erskine introduced the Model 52 Sedan in 1929, and designer Raymond Dietrich styled it to look more like its more popular American and Studebaker counterparts. The boxy sedan had a wheelbase of 109 inches, slightly longer than previous models, and gained about 150 pounds. It was powered by a 146 cubic-inch inline six-cylinder engine that produced about 43 horsepower and was mated to a three-speed manual transmission. Inside, the Erskine Model 52 featured a roomy rear passenger compartment with pull shades on the side and rear windows. 

Although Erskine’s first car was shown at the Paris Auto Show, the automaker’s fast start on the world stage came to a sudden halt with the stock market crash in 1929 and the ensuing Great Depression. Studebaker shut down Erskine production in 1930.  

Highlights 

• Offered from the Rocket City Collection 

• Non-running 1929 Erskine Model 52 Sedan should be considered a project car 

• Finished in maroon and black paint with black top over tan mohair upholstery 

• Powered by a Continental 146 cu-in inline-six engine rated at 43 hp 

• Three-speed manual transmission 

Features 

• Older cosmetic restoration 

• Previously displayed in the Kelsey Antique Auto Museum in Camdenton, Missouri, which closed in 1994 

• Suicide doors 

• Running boards 

• Rear luggage rack 

• Intricately designed dashboard with 90 mph speedometer; gauges for oil pressure, amps, and fuel; and “The Little Aristocrat” badge 

• Wooden floorboards 

• 20-inch wire wheels 

• Bedford Famous Coach 4.75/5.0-20 whitewall tires 

Known Imperfections 

• Multiple paint chips, scratches, and scuffs 

• Some pitting and light corrosion on chrome 

• Car does not run 

• Wooden front floorboard is broken 

• Upholstery is worn and torn 

Included 

• Dual, side-mounted spare tires 

• Lug wrench 

Ownership History

The owner of this 1929 Erskine Model 52 Sedan purchased the car from the Kelsey Antique Auto Museum auction in September 2024. 

Additional Notes  

A Broad Arrow Auctions Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. Broad Arrow Auctions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty. 

Contact: Ramsey Potts   Phone: 912.508.4096   email: rpotts@hagerty.com