A rare 1935 Duesenberg SSJ cemented its place in automotive history as the most expensive Duesenberg ever sold, achieving a staggering $22 million at auction. The record-breaking sale took place during Monterey Car Week in 2018, where fierce bidding underscored the enduring appeal of pre-war American luxury cars.
Image Credit: Hot Cars
The car, one of only two SSJ models ever built, was originally owned by Hollywood legend Gary Cooper. Its provenance, combined with extreme rarity, played a significant role in driving its value to unprecedented levels. At the time of its creation, the SSJ represented the pinnacle of American automotive engineering, featuring a supercharged straight-eight engine producing around 400 horsepower, an extraordinary figure for the 1930s.
Auctioned by Gooding & Company, the car far exceeded expectations, doubling its pre-sale estimate of around $10 million. The final price not only set a new benchmark for Duesenberg but also made it the most expensive American car and the most valuable pre-war automobile ever sold at auction.
Image Credit: Classic & Sports Car
The SSJ’s significance goes beyond its price tag. Built on a shortened chassis and designed as a high-performance speedster, it embodied the ambition of Duesenberg during an era when the company sought to rival Europe’s finest marques. Its exclusivity, paired with its connection to Hollywood royalty, has elevated it to near-mythical status among collectors.
Today, the $22 million sale remains a defining moment in the classic car market, illustrating the growing demand for historically important automobiles. While other Duesenberg models have achieved multi-million-dollar results, none have come close to the SSJ’s record, reinforcing its position as the ultimate expression of American automotive luxury and collectability.
Image Credit: Hot Cars
At Classic Motors For Sale, we connect collectors, dealers, and enthusiasts worldwide. Our Dealer Advertising Packages and Private Seller Packages give premium exposure across our entire network of websites, newsletters, and social media platforms, helping you sell faster and reach serious buyers.
If you have a car to sell, or you’re looking for your next automotive icon, visit www.classicmotorsforsale.com and discover the world’s leading marketplace for classic, vintage, and collector cars.
Trust the platform that's been driving classic car connections worldwide since 2009.
I can be contacted at the details below:
Nick Aylieff, Owner & CEO, Classic Motors For Sale
+44 (0) 7453 354260 | Mobile +66 (0) 864 054 536 |
