1956 Continental Mark II Coupe

The Continental Division was created by Ford Motor Company to produce the Mark II and was folded into Lincoln after production ceased in 1957.

Generally regarded as the last car built in America without regard to cost, the Mark II was intended to be the 'American Rolls Royce.' Even with a factory list price of $10,000, it was said that Ford still lost $1,000 per car.

Much anticipated as the successor to the original Lincoln Continental of 1940-42 and 1946-48, the new version would remain a very exclusive car. Just over 3,000 were produced, as in 1956 and 1957 models.

Originally delivered to Thompson Motors, Alliance, Ohio, this Continental's invoice is dated December 14, 1955. Little is known of its subsequent history until the car appeared at an auction in Florida in 1998. The current owner purchased it at auction in Auburn, Indiana, that same year, showing just over 18,000 actual miles.

This Continental was systematically restored, including paint, partial interior, and mechanical restoration. The owners have used the car regularly but sparingly since 2005, and the odometer now reads just over 19,000 miles.