To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' The Hershey Auction event, 7 - 8 October 2026.
Offered Without Reserve | $100,000 - $140,000 USD
- One of only 2,150 produced in the second year of Eldorado production
- Attractive older concours restoration, in excellent running order
- Finished in its original Alpine White over red and white color scheme
- Formerly part of the Vernon Smith and David Brogdon collections
Following the success of Cadillac’s limited-production Eldorado in 1953, the model returned for 1954. The new Eldorado was again based upon the Series 62 convertible, but was more subtly customized, including the fitment of special ribbed lower rear fender moldings, standard chrome wire wheels, and unique gold-plated body hardware. It was over $1,000 more expensive than any other Series 62 models, and nearly as costly as a Series 75 limousine. Accordingly, only 2,150 were built. They were among America’s most illustrious status-symbol automobiles, and survivors are fiercely prized by Cadillac enthusiasts and collectors.
The car offered here is finished in its original factory color scheme, the Eldorado-exclusive hue of Alpine White over a red and white leather interior with black Orlon fabric top. It is equipped with a Hydramatic transmission, power windows and locks, power seat, E-Z Eye tinted glass, heater, Wonderbar signal-seeking pushbutton radio, and “parade boot” top cover.
Restored to a superbly authentic standard some years ago, its finishes are not overly shiny and bear an excellent factory look throughout, especially under the hood. Both chassis and engine bear their matching factory stampings. A showpiece since its restoration, the Cadillac had recorded only 201 miles at the time of cataloguing, while part of several prominent collections, most prominently Vernon Smith’s well-known “Toy Box” collection in Swift Current, Newfoundland, known for its extremely high-quality and award-winning 1950s American cars. While in the Smith collection, it was displayed at the 2004 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. It was later sold to John Brinzo of Ohio, then passed to David Brogdon of Birmingham, Alabama, from whom it was acquired by current owner Mr. Michael Leith in 2024.
An excellent and properly restored example of the great 1954 Eldorado, this car has wonderful heritage in great collections, including its current home, where it has enjoyed meticulous maintenance, reflected in its fine cosmetic and mechanical order. It would be a superb new addition to any Cadillac enthusiast’s collection.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/auctions/hf26/.