Chassis No. 1Y82H415702
Engine No. 41A311

The fourth-generation Lincoln Continental (1961-1969) marked the decisive shift from 1950s excess to a new era of mid-century modernism. The new model was notably more compact, measuring 15 inches shorter than its predecessor and significantly smaller than Cadillacs (10.6 inches longer) and Chrysler Imperials (15.4 inches longer) of the era. Available as either a Four-Door Sedan or Convertible—the latter featuring a novel pillarless power-operated soft top—the Continental's design was characterized by curved side glass and clean surface treatment. Both variants were powered by the proven 430 cubic-inch MEL V8 engine carried over from the previous generation, delivering 300 horsepower through a smooth three-speed automatic transmission. With its restrained use of brightwork and relatively trim dimensions, the Continental established itself as a definitive luxury car of the 1960s, elegantly balancing presence with subtlety.

According to a copy of the original window sticker affixed to the rear passenger window, this spectacular 1961 Lincoln Continental Four-Door Sedan was dispatched to Peterson Lincoln Mercery in Minneapolis, Minnesota, finished as it presents today in striking Sunburst Yellow paintwork over optional special Black leather interior trim. The sticker also notes that this example was factory-equipped with nearly every option available to Continental buyers in 1961, including air conditioning, a six-way power seat, speed control, and tinted glass. Prior to entering the Academy of Art University Collection in 2009, the car was the subject of a photo-documented, ground-up restoration reportedly exceeding $100,000 in the early 1990s. Previous research suggests that the freshly restored Lincoln went on to claim five major Lincoln Continental Owners Club (LCOC) awards while under the ownership of Gordon Jensen of Minneapolis, Minnesota, evidenced by an LCOC National Competition Major Award Winner grille badge.

The quality of its restoration—executed to a standard typically reserved for the Convertible models—is further supported by its remarkable preservation today, presenting beautifully some three decades after the work was completed. Accompanied by an owner's manual, spare tire, jack, and photo album of restoration images, this award-winning Continental would make an excellent candidate for continued success at prestigious concours events or LCOC National meets.