From field find to future show-stopper; that’s the plan for this 1928 Packard 5-26 2-Passenger Convertible Coupe. The Krum, Texas classic had just about crumbled into dust before finding itself in a shop, full of dreams. After enjoying a mild spruce-up (see below) and at least one new piece of metal, the once-grand drop-top seeks a new owner here on eBay, where at least six bidders test the waters. The market value of this needs-everything restoration eclipses $3000 so far, not yet meeting the seller’s Reserve.

The most expensive Packard Six for 1928, this model 5-26 cost $2425 before custom additions, according to PackardInfo, about $42,000 today, slightly above the cost of most modern convertibles. Built almost exactly 10 months before Black Monday, this middle-class Packard may have seen its first owner hit rough waters before the rolling status symbol needed tires. Ironically, $42,000 is close to the five-year $45,200 average sale price for Packard 5-26 models, according to Classic.

With a mix of wooden and steel structure, cars like this require more planning and effort than, say, rebuilding a ’69 Camaro. You can bet the seller crunched some numbers in a literal or virtual spreadsheet before tossing it up on eBay. Were this a dusty long-stored original, complete with interior and mechanical parts, and at least some original paint, a sympathetic refurbishment could lead to a tour of “Preservation Class” shows, but the ship sailed on that plan when this former beauty queen sat outside for… too long.

Though not as prestigious as Packard’s famous inline eight cylinder powerplants, the 242 cid (4.0L) six looks almost as elegant and, like all inline sixes, features the smoothness of inherent balance. Stymied by tight access, the seller has not turned the engine by hand. Though certainly not a deal-breaker, that detail would tend to keep bidding low. Thanks to Conceptcarz for some details.

Credit the seller with including close-up pictures of numerous stamped markings, the body plate, and other identifying numbers. The once majestic castaway even comes with a clean title. Reaching for the Place Bid button yet? Many Packard lovers with the skills and time to make this convertible coupe gleam might save their labor of love for a Packard Eight promising greater potential upside. How high would you bid to restore this classic for a $50,000 resale?