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A rare piece of presidential history, one of the 10 Ghia limousines ever produced, once used by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, is now up for auction. The vehicle’s anticipated sale price ranges from $125,000 to $150,000.
As reported by The Detroit News, this historically significant limousine was part of the cortege during President John F. Kennedy’s funeral in November 1963. The widow of the late president, Jackie Kennedy, utilized this limousine for personal transport for almost a year, and it was even employed to take Lyndon B. Johnson to his second presidential inauguration in 1965. The car proudly served in the White House fleet up until 1969.
Boasting a mere 15,109 miles on its odometer, this impeccably maintained limousine is painted in a stately black with sleek gray interior upholstery. According to auction house Mecum, the original MSRP was $18,500, nearly triple the price of a brand-new 1964 Chrysler Imperial LeBaron.
The vehicle’s story continued when it was bought at an auction by Hugh McVeigh, the proprietor of Redford Chrysler in Michigan, with only 9,000 miles logged. McVeigh was initially unaware of its remarkable past and used it for family outings to northern Michigan. A feature McVeigh found particularly useful was the power divider window between the driver and passenger compartments for quieting the sound of his children in the back, as reported by the Detroit Free Press.
Chrysler later approached McVeigh to buy back the limousine, but he declined. It remained stored in his garage until 1979, when it was sold to the Eppert Oil Company.
This Imperial Crown Ghia Presidential Limousine features a 340-hp V8 engine and pushbutton three-speed automatic transmission. While most of the Chrysler/Ghia remains in its original state, it has received updates to its fuel lines, fuel tank, and badges. The vehicle also showcases stunning whitewall tires and distinct red parade headlights.
If this car could narrate its story, it would no doubt unveil some fascinating historical anecdotes from its gleaming black lacquer exterior.
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FAQ about the JFK Funeral Limousine
- What is the make and model of the limousine?
- The limousine is a 1964 Imperial Crown Ghia.
- What is the historical significance of this limousine?
- This vehicle was utilized in President John F. Kennedy’s funeral procession and was later used by his widow Jackie Kennedy as her personal vehicle. It also carried Lyndon B. Johnson to his second inauguration in 1965.
- How many miles are on the limousine?
- The limousine has 15,109 miles on its odometer.
- Has the vehicle been well preserved?
- Yes, the limousine is in a well-kept condition with updates done only to necessities such as fuel lines, a fuel tank, and badges.
Conclusion
The 1964 Ghia Presidential Limousine carries with it a somber yet fascinating piece of American history. Its involvement in the aftermath of one of the most shocking events in the US, coupled with its use by important figures, makes it an artifact of political and cultural significance. Its presence on the auction block today is not just a chance for collectors to own a piece of history, but also a reminder of the personal stories intertwined with the nation’s collective memory.
