Lot 139

Hershey 2015

1929 Ford Model A 'Leatherback' Fordor Sedan by Briggs

The Richard Roy Estate

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$9,900 USD | Sold

United States | Hershey, Pennsylvania

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Engine No.
A847-958
Body No.
190-97754
  • Offered from the Richard Roy Estate
  • Amazing original, unrestored condition
  • Single-family ownership from 1929 to 2003
  • Very desirable body style

40 bhp, 200.5 cu. in. L-head inline four-cylinder engine, three-speed manual transmission, solid front axle and live rear axle with transverse semi-elliptical leaf springs, and four-wheel mechanical drum brakes. Wheelbase: 103.5 in.

The first Fordor Sedan offered on the Ford Model A chassis was the so-called “Leatherback” model, with a “two-window” roofline without rear quarter windows, covered in pebble-grain artificial leather. Promoted by Ford as the Fordor Sedan, it was intended to be a more comfortable Model A, and emphasis was placed upon the luxuriousness and quality of its interior fittings. Bodies of this style were produced by Briggs, in a leased corner of the Highland Park Ford plant, and became available in mid-May 1928. The design continued into 1929, after which a “three-window” design was adopted for future Model A Fordors.

The 1929 Fordor Sedan offered here was acquired by Richard Roy from John Schramm, of Rockland, Maine. A letter on file from Mr. Schramm notes that he purchased it with 39,999 miles on the odometer and that an oil change sticker inside the door, from 1951, notes mileage of 33,500. The Model A had been driven only 6,000 miles in 52 years!

The car remains in wonderful original condition and can only be referred to as AACA HPOF Class-ready. Its fenders appear to have been repainted some time ago, but the majority of the Bramble Brown finish on the body is original, with a rich patina earned through many polishings over the years, as is the nickel trim throughout and the Seal Brown pebble-grain artificial leather top covering. The mohair interior is similarly original and in good condition for its 85-plus years of life. While the car is not presently running, under the hood appears well maintained and clean though unrestored, with correct finishes and colors present. It is offered with a 1955 Model A Restoration Manual, published by Ford Motor Company Archives, as well as an original 1928 “The New Ford” dealer portfolio in good condition.

This is an excellent unrestored Model A, ready for enjoyment by the collector who appreciates fine originality.