A 1930 Duesenberg Model J Torpedo Berline convertible, formerly belonging to actor Tyrone Power, is to lead Mecum Auctions' January 17-26 sale at Kissimmee, Florida.
When the Duesenberg Model J was first shown at the 1928 New York Salon, contemporary reports document that trading ceased on Wall Street as brokers rushed out to view it.
 Duesenberg broke the land speed record at Daytona in 1917 |
In terms of looks and power it was streets ahead of the competition, featuring a 420 CI dual-overhead-camshaft straight 8 engine capable of a top speed of 116 mph.
The Torpedo Berline convertible model appeared in 1930, with the example in the sale featuring coachwork by the Pasadena-based Walter M Murphy.
It has had a litany of glamorous owners: including the screenwriter Gene Markey, James Talmadge (son of Buster Keaton) and Tyrone Power - perhaps best known for his appearance in the Mask of Zorro.
In recent years it has featured in two separate car museums and a number of auto shows - indicating that the public remains fascinated by its iconic design almost 100 years after it was first produced.
This year has seen strong sales for vintage Duesenbergs, with a 1929 Model J Dual-Cowl Phaeton achieving $682,000 at RM Auctions in Plymouth, Michigan in July.
A 1930 Model J Murphy convertible coupe did even better at Auctions America - realising $1.5m
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