Ordered new by Rolls Royce as their demonstrator and factory limousine. This car was used by the factory for five years then sold new in 1961.
This 1956 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith, featuring elegant seven-passenger limousine coachwork by Park Ward, exemplifies luxury and craftsmanship from the marque's golden era. Ordered new by Rolls Royce as their demonstrator and factory limousine. This car was used by the factory for five years then sold new in 1961. Additionally, this 1956 Rolls Royce was used in Prince Edward’s Royal Wedding in 1961.
The limousine is finished in a sophisticated black and gold color scheme, accentuated by tan pinstripes. Park Ward’s design includes timeless elements such as a Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament, a chrome grille surround, and semaphore turn signals. Touch-ups over the years preserve its grandeur, while minor imperfections attest to its storied life. Fog lights, fender-mounted mirrors, and 16” steel wheels with wide-whitewall radial tires complete the regal appearance.
The chauffeur’s compartment, reupholstered in beige leather, houses a wood dash with a 100-mph speedometer, auxiliary gauges, and an analog clock. The rear passenger area, lined with luxurious tan Wilton wool, features a spacious bench seat, fold-out jump seats, and Wilton wool carpets. A glass partition with a lighted burl walnut cocktail cabinet—complete with crystal glasses and decanters—adds a touch of opulence. Radio controls in the armrest cater to passenger comfort.
Power comes from a 4.9L F-head inline-six engine with twin SU carburetors, paired with a four-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. Independent front suspension, semi-elliptic rear suspension, hydraulically adjustable rear shocks, and servo-assisted drum brakes provide a smooth and composed ride.
Originally ordered as a factory demonstrator and corporate limousine, the car found its first private owner in 1961. Imported to the U.S. in 1978, it later joined the Rolls-Royce Owner’s Club Foundation Museum in 2016. Accompanied by factory documentation and currently showing 48k miles, this Silver Wraith stands as a testament to Rolls-Royce’s heritage of excellence.
Now offered with a clean Arizona title, this 1956 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith represents an extraordinary opportunity for collectors to acquire a true piece of automotive artistry and history.
