For 1959, Ford was awarded the Gold Medal for 'Exceptional styling' at the Brussels World's Fair. The wagon design was pleasing, and seemed quite restrained when compared to GM and Chrysler rivals. Confounding pundits, the conservative Ford waged a hot battle for sales supremacy with the bat-winged Chevrolet.
The simulated wood-side Country Squire was the prestige ride, although the mid-level Country Sedan was the volume seller in Ford's station wagon line-up. Standard features included 'Iris Eye' safety taillights, 'Lifeguard Double-Grip' door locks, 'Luxury Lounge' interiors and 'Diamond Lustre Finish.'
This Country Squire was originally sold by Three Rivers Motor Co. of Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania. With only 56,000 miles from new, it remains unrestored and is presently in the hands of its fourth owner. Optional equipment consists of a 332 cubic-inch 'Thunderbird Special' V8, Cruise-O-Matic transmission, power steering, radio, electric wipers, padded dash and visors, back-up lamps, and full wheel covers. Dealer-added accessories include a luggage rack, safety door locks, seat belts, and dual mirrors. The original invoice indicates it sold new for $3,723.65.