Every Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith chassis produced between 1946 and 1959 was fitted with custom coachwork by some of the finest shops, on a platform that in typical Rolls-Royce fashion enjoyed constant gentle evolution of its specifications. Chassis number FLW7, the Silver Wraith offered here, was equipped with an automatic transmission and bodied by Park Ward to its popular design number 704, an imposing formal limousine, with its rather traditional design lightened by beautifully crowned, deeply skirted fenders and a swept tail. It was originally delivered in October 1956 to none other than Rolls-Royce Ltd. itself, with the build sheet noting “Company Car—Derby Transport Department,” and Lawrence Dalton’s Rolls-Royce: The Classic Elegance recording its assignment to the Aero (engine) Division. Further records note “ex-demonstrator car,” and that it was apparently turned into Car Mart, Ltd. of London for sale in 1961.

In 1976 the car appeared on the other side of the Atlantic, owned by James H. Selway of York, Pennsylvania. It would be recorded in his ownership with the Rolls-Royce Owners Club through 1993. Afterward it appears to have remained in York, owned by John L. Finlayson, who listed it with the Rolls-Royce Owners’ Club from 2004 to 2016. Today the car remains in good driver-quality condition throughout, with some age visible to the finishes, which have been selectively redone over time. The front seat was recently reupholstered in correct color-dyed leather, with the balance of the interior remaining original. Corrosion is visible at the bottom of the doors, and to the aluminum fender liners and fender and bumper mounts, the latter easily replaceable. The car has been in long-term storage and will require mechanical recommissioning prior to use. It is accompanied by a decanter set for its cocktail compartment, spare wheel/tire, and jack.

Recently donated to the Rolls-Royce Foundation, this onetime “company car” is offered to benefit the programs of that organization, known and respected by many in the hobby. The Rolls-Royce Foundation is an independent, nonprofit organization, dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the heritage of Rolls-Royce and Bentley motor cars through a museum and an extensive library of sales literature, technical materials, and historical documents, including detailed build and ownership records—such as those referenced in the description of this lot. There are few opportunities to acquire a more handsome automobile for a more worthy cause.