1921 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost Tourer

The rulers of India favored the Rolls-Royce automobile, and it is believed that the Maharajah of Gwailor was the earliest owner who in 1908 took delivery of one of the first examples built. His commissioned specific formal coachwork became known as 'The Pearl of the East'.

By the time this particular example was built, Rolls-Royce had agencies in Calcutta, Delhi, and Bombay. This example was commissioned through Calcutta by its agent G. Mein Austin in April of 1921. Since delivery times were often lengthy, many cars had their coachwork ordered at the time of chassis build. This car, however, is listed on its order documentation as 'Body to be built in India'- the maker is not listed. The coachbuilder is believed to have been Steuart & Co. of Calcutta.

It is believed that 47AG remained in India until the 1950s or 1960s. By 1969, the car was in America and in the care of Sam D. Fire, of New York. From Fire, the car passed to William Butler, and in 2005 was offered for sale at Bonham's auction. At that time, the car entered the ownership of its current owner.

This Rolls-Royce retains its original numbered hood, large bulbous Stephan Grebel Headlights, and running board mounted spotlight. In 2006 the car was shown at the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jul 2021