Caribbean Convertible (United States of America, 1952)

With a limited production run of only 750, the exclusive Caribbean was Packard’s “halo vehicle.” It was introduced in November 1952 with the rest of the 1953 line, and its styling was derived directly from the stunning Packard Pan American show car of 1952. Mitchell-Bentley Corporation modified standard Packard convertible bodies to achieve the sleek, elegant European appearance of the Caribbean. The car was devoid of regular side trim and had special full-wheel cutouts and rocker panels edged in chrome. It also had a Continental kit nestled nicely between lengthened rear fenders. A 327-cubic inch, 180-horsepower version of Packard’s legendary straight eight provided motivation.

The Gulf Green car offered here was the 61st Caribbean built, and it was originally delivered to prominent Seattle building supply magnate, philanthropist, and socialite James Hodges. Mr. Hodges drove the Packard for two years, before selling it to a family friend, Mary Christina Nuckols, who had long admired it. Mrs. Nuckols dubbed the Caribbean “my dream boat,” and she enjoyed it for over a decade, before her doctor advised her to give up driving, due to a heart condition.