To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' The Hershey Auction event, 7 - 8 October 2026.
Offered Without Reserve | $90,000 - $120,000 USD
- Mercury’s range-topping convertible for 1956; one of 7,762 produced
- Acquired by the consignor in 2023 after 29 years in the noted collection of Clyde Horst
- Multiple AACA award-winner; expertly restored in 1995
- Stunning color combination; beautifully detailed throughout
Mercury’s range-topping Montclair debuted in 1955 and received a series of upgrades for 1956—most notably the upsized 312-cubic-inch Y-block V-8. When paired with a three-speed automatic transmission, it produced a respectable 215 horsepower. Style moved forward with new color combinations, sweeping trim that set off the car’s flanks, and a “Big M” Mercury emblem on the nose, just below the aerospace-inspired chrome hood ornament.
This extraordinarily well-presented Montclair Convertible is one of 7,762 produced for 1956. It wears an attractive two-tone Classic White and Persimmon exterior with a white convertible top, over a complementary two-tone interior. Inside, the nicely detailed cabin features a pushbutton AM radio and clock, a deeply dished steering wheel—part of the Ford Motor Company’s new-for-1956 “Lifeguard” suite of safety features—and an eye-catching instrument cluster with a horizontal speedometer. Power steering, power brakes, and a power top round out the list of convenience features.
Meticulously maintained as part of the renowned collection of Clyde Horst for 29 years and a notable highlight among its top-notch inventory, this Montclair Convertible is said to have received a frame-off restoration in 1995, the quality of work affirmed with Antique Automobile Club of America First Junior and First Senior awards the same year, and deemed Best of Show at the 1999 Mercury National Club Meet. Acquired by Michael Leith out of the Horst Collection in 2023, it has been driven sparingly since its restoration and remains incredibly well-detailed throughout and in strong running and driving order, thanks to continued conscientious care in present ownership.
The Montclair Convertible was Mercury’s full-size flagship offering for 1956, and this beautifully restored, well-maintained example, with its exuberant post-war styling, appealing two-tone livery, and Y-block V-8 power to spare, ably demonstrates why.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/auctions/hf26/.