When this 1959 Corvette first rolled into the world wearing its rare Crown Sapphire Metallic paint — one of only 888 sprayed that way — it was a five year old “boy” in spirit: eager, bright, and proud of its turquoise interior and shiny stainless trim.
In 1964, a young man bought it from the original owner, and for the next 60 years, the Corvette aged under the same careful hands. It grew from a spirited youth into a dignified old man, pampered but not hidden away, accumulating just 41,870 miles before being retired from the road in 1990.
Today, the old gentleman finds himself on eBay, bidding already at $45,300 with two days to go — “reserve not met,” he notes with a hint of pride.
His condition tells the story of a life well lived. The body panels line up beautifully, the hood, doors, and deck lid closing with the confidence of a car that’s never been wrecked or patched. His stainless, chrome, bumpers, and glass are all original, showing only minor checking and age appropriate imperfections. He wears a respectful 1980s repaint in the original color — not flawless, but honest.
Inside, the 100% original turquoise interior shows its years: the driver’s seat has torn seams, the carpet is worn, and the dash has cracks at the corners. The steering wheel and some trim have faded, the kind of patina that only comes from decades of sunlight and real use. Still, the gauges and bezels remain bright, and the convertible top — though its rear window is discolored — has no rips and retains an excellent frame.
Underneath, the Corvette is remarkably solid. The frame shows no rust, rot, or repairs, a rarity for a car that saw regular use in the ’60s and ’70s. Its original 283/230 hp engine and three speed manual still run, shift, and stop properly. It doesn’t smoke, and it steers well, though the ancient bias ply tires are overdue for retirement.
Now located in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, the old man waits for his next caretaker — someone who appreciates originality over perfection, someone who sees beauty in a survivor with laugh lines.
Source:
eBay Motors via Barnfinds.com
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Mitch, the car in question here is a nice car, but the 3-speed manual transmission, but this car was not born with it. It is a converted Powerglide. I was in agreement to purchase this car and backed out after I did research on the parts and numbers. The seller conceded that the second owner changed the transmission in 1964 and converted it to manual. I canceled the transaction.
And yes- I did travel to see the car in person and photographed it myself for purposes of verifying originality. The engine stamp is F309DG, which is a 230-horse 283 with Powerglide transmission. The engine seems to be absolutely original, and the number lines up perfectly with the car’s build date – but the transmission definitely is not, and this was conceded by the seller.
The shift indicator has been replaced by a small wooden blank- which was a fact taht was nagging at me. Why would anyone do that? And when I confirmed my findings – it all made sense.
Again- it is a lovely car. The change should have been disclosed up front, since the word “survivor” was used so many times to describe the car. If one knows what it is and is willing to spend the money on it – it’s a beautiful and very dignified-looking car with a very solid undercarriage and very original interior. Paint is old but has a great patina.
But ask all the questions.