1931 Duesenberg Model J Murphy

Convertible Sedan8-cyl. 420cid/265hp 2bbl

North America

$1,050,000

Drivers Club

Sold January 26, 2023

Hagerty expert commentary

Our staff has reviewed this vehicle. Here are our notes.

Equipment

420/265hp, 3-speed, chrome wire wheels, Firestone blackwall tires, dual sidemount spares with covers, luggage trunk, dual spotlights, landau bars, suicide front doors, dual chrome horns, engine-turned dash.

Condition

Formerly in the Petersen Automotive Museum. Other well known owners include Judge John North, Homer Fitterling (for whom it was restored with this coachwork originally from J-127/2152), Ed Weaver, the Johnson family collection and Aaron Weiss. ACD Certified Category 1. Shown at Pebble Beach in 2018. Restored decades ago then restored again in the mid-2010s. Beautiful paint, chrome, and underbody. Very lightly worn seats and the panel gaps are a little imperfect. Show-ready.

Market

Sold by Gooding at Amelia in 2013 for $462,000 before the most recent restoration. A handsome and unusual body (originally intended for a Packard) on Duesenberg's short wheelbase chassis. Original drivetrain but the firewall from 2152. Bought reasonably here, a different looking Duesenberg with a clear history that will stand out on any show field.

Hagerty Condition Rating#1 ConcoursWorld-class. Could compete in the world’s best Concours d'Elegance events.

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