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30k Mile Time Capsule: 1950 Cadillac Series 61 Coupe

Although many low-mileage, original 1950s-era “Time Capsules” have been featured on Barn Finds, this extraordinary 1950 Cadillac Series 61 Coupe would probably make our Top Ten List. Just look at what’s listed under the heading of “Original and in excellent condition: paint, interior, engine, transmission, and chrome. Plus, even the original unmounted 71-year-old spare tire is included in the sale. You’ll find this 30,000 original mile Time-Capsule-Of-All-Time Capsules residing in Putnam Valley, NY here on eBay with a bid as of this writing of $18,700. A special shout out to Larry D for sending us another great tip to feature.

When Cadillac received a restyling in 1950, it marked the first time the Series 61 used a shorter wheelbase (about 4 inches) than the Series 62. Although the Series 61 was the lowest-priced Cadillac and had less chrome and not as fancy of an interior as the Series 62, it was still a Cadillac, The Standard of the World. This pampered coupe, finished in an attractive French Gray with a Savoy Gray top, has been owned for 30 years by a third-generation retired Cadillac dealer. The seller provides a fair number of photos and descriptions, stating the paint is totally original with a few minor flaws and one touchup that are shown on three photos. The only other flaw mentioned is a 3/8” chip in the windshield on the top of the passenger side, but a NOS, original 1950 Cadillac windshield is included with the car. The seller also states that “The chrome is original and excellent (NOT REPLATED).

The interior of this 71-year-old Cadillac is truly remarkable. There is very little (if any) visible wear on the driver’s side seat or armrest. The photos tell the story of how well it is preserved and support the seller’s claim that “The interior is totally original and in near perfect condition. It is nearly impossible to duplicate this original fabric. The steering wheel is excellent as is the interior chrome.”

Under its long hood, the 331-cubic-inch V-8 engine is original, and the engine bay looks very presentable. The seller states that the “car runs as it should with no issues. The four-speed transmission shifts smoothly.” The trunk compartment is also exceptionally clean, plus the original (there’s that word again!) unmounted spare tire is included in the sale. The Caddy currently rides on four period-correct bias-ply tires with 95% tread remaining, with a new spare in the trunk. So, if you’ve ever dreamed of driving a new 1950 Cadillac Series 61 Coupe off the showroom floor, this is probably as close as you’ll ever get to experiencing that thrill. If the reserve is met, some lucky soul will be time traveling and enjoying this drivable dream. Could it be you?

Comments

  1. Avatar FordGuy1972 Member

    Magnificent Cadillac, the original condition is amazing, even under the hood. The chrome just sparkles and the interior is stunning. I just love the ivory-tone steering wheel and the full wheel covers. While still Cadillac’s entry level model, this car just exudes class. Cadillac really was in a class by itself back then, simply beautiful cars.

    Like 17
    • Avatar Ron Denny Staff

      Totally agree with you. An amazing original example of an amazing era for Cadillac and General Motors. It’s also cool to see the original spare. It reinforces the correct whitewall width…

      Like 11
  2. Avatar Geoff

    Colors are exquisite! Cadillac at the top of their game.

    Like 6
    • Avatar Ron Denny Staff

      Geoff, I agree. Those two shades of gray (plus the red wheel rims) are perfect for the lines and elegance of this Caddy Coupe. Simply stunning.

      Like 3
      • Avatar Luki

        Green I believe.
        Absolutely gorgeous.

        Like 2
  3. Avatar Gas1251

    If it wasn’t so nice it could be a Cunningham LeMans tribute car

    Like 0
  4. Avatar Mike

    Was anything put in the trunk? Looks amazing for being untouched for 70 years.

    Like 2
  5. Avatar Will Fox

    Cadillac was at the top of their game in 1950. Having a Caddy meant you’ve made it, and success was easily attained by you! They are only original once, and this car is probably THE best preserved of it’s kind anywhere! At car shows, you can dare people to prove it’s been restored!

    Like 6
  6. Avatar 370zpp Member

    Whatever they did to preserve this one, they did it right.
    The steering wheel alone is magnificent in its structural integrity and overall condition.

    Like 5
    • Avatar JoeNYWF64

      Can i assume the plastic steering wheels of the ’50s are less likely to crack than those of the ’60’s & ’70s? If so, i wonder why.

      Like 0
      • Avatar Lance

        Joe, ABSOLUTELY NOT. Those late 40’s early 50’s ivory wheels were a mess in short order . Especially so if it was in the sun. A recast for this steering wheel alone is about $900. This is an excellent preserved specimen. Really nice Caddy.

        Like 1
      • Avatar JoeNYWF64

        Lance, if that be the case, i would think then that the above steering wheel in the car is a refurbished one – probably done recently, since did they even HAVE climate control garages in the ’50s-’70s? & even if they did, wouldn’t it be VERY expensive to heat & a/c a garage for 71 years?!
        lol
        & might the 71 yr old plastic still crack, at least in a couple of spots?

        Like 0
  7. Avatar David Frank Member

    What they said.Beautiful. Great find. It doesn’t need AC to be cool!

    Like 2
  8. Avatar Johnmloghry

    Very nice. I had a brother (passed in 71) that had a 50 very similar to this one except his was white with black top and the man he bought it from had a 55 engine put in it. My brother was easily angered and one day the car wouldn’t start so he smashed the windshield then set the car on fire. It was on our dads farm so it didn’t burn anything else down. I loved my brother but after he came home from Vietnam he was not quite right.
    God bless America

    Like 4
  9. Avatar J B CLARK

    This was America’s finest quality, matched only by chrysler imperial, lincoln and packard. Advanced V-8 engine and automatic transmission gave cadillac the competitive edge in 1950. Notice the 6 volt electrical system and no power steering, windows or seat. What could go wrong? I always appreciated the 61 series but questioned the wisdom of offering a lower price line in those prosperous 1950’s. This car belongs in a museum.

    Like 0
  10. Avatar Bob Mck

    Amazing!

    Like 2
  11. Avatar Rob Norman

    I have a chrome gauges piece just like this dash , always wondered what it was out of…. is it worth anything ?… speedo still turns It looks cool on a shelf, stopped at 77,000 miles lol

    Like 0
  12. Avatar Angel Cadillac Diva Member

    The steering wheel could possibly be bakalite? That was pretty durable if taken care of.

    Like 1
  13. Avatar Gary Rhodes

    This is EXACTLY what a true survivor car should be. If this car has not been touched it is simply awesome. Absolutely beautiful car and if I had the space I would love to own it.

    Like 0
  14. Avatar Mountainwoodie

    Whats that phrase……..they are only original once? In the midst of a plethora of over restored mislabeled ‘original’ vintage tin, finally something that deserves the label. Its up to 36 K and no wonder. You can’t replicate original!

    As a little kid I had an Uncle who passed a ’52 Series 62 onto to us in around 1961. My Dad was a resolutely stripper driving Chevy, Plymouth , Buick man……….as long as it was a stripper. So this Caddie didnt last long……way too fancy. But I remember the somber and stately gun metal grey color, the flip up tail light for fuel and the sense that it was an immovable object as it was so huge :)

    Like 1

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