Franklin Mint 1961 Lincoln Continental- Nbr Ltd Ed of 2500

What more can be said about one of The Franklin Mint’s most important diecast vehicles? Even today the original version, in Presidential Black, still sells for a premium. Issued in July of 1996, it was a highly popular model hailed for its great detail and faithful representation of the vaunted Lincoln land yacht it replicated. One month later, in August, the car was slated to sell at the Pebble Beach Concours D’Elegance in a small quantity of 500. Repainted in Sultana White they disappeared quickly at the classic car event. Very soon thereafter the model hit cult status when it became so nearly impossible to find. The folks that originally bought them liked them so well that they did not want to part with them. The question now might be better asked of what has the re-issue of the model in 2003, in Regency Turquoise of 1000 units, and now this reiteration in Royal Red, done to the intrinsic values of the various versions. Besides allowing more collectors to own a brand new version of the diecast, it gives us more color options to please a broader range of tastes.

No doubt about it, this deep Royal Red Poly looks elegant and rich on the Lincoln’s long frame. The contrasting red and white interior enhances the total package. It is mostly about the color change but FM has added a couple wrinkles to sweeten the pot. There have been different hood ornaments on these cars; photo-etched metal and plastic. This one is a substantial P-E metal. Though not as delicate and detailed as a former iteration it is not as vulnerable to damage. Perhaps the best change I note is that the ‘up-top’ locator pin holes in the rear body cowling behind the rear seats are now gone. So if you display the car sans roof, there are no unsightly holes to detract from the view. FM has added two small pegs to the rear base of the top to align with the rear inside body work and a small tab that fits between the sun visors. It keeps everything on the up and up. It does not fasten the top tightly but it keeps it from flopping around during minor movements.

The engine bay continues to look good; wires and plumbing are sharp. Interior detailing is the same; excellent, and with dark ruby red flooring, matching steering wheel and seat centers, presents a pleasant look. The front seat features a folding arm rest and the dash and gauges are nicely formed. The grille, rear valance and windshield wipers still make good use of photo-etch metal and the antenna is scaled well. The car still looks great after all these years and makes a grand display with any or all of the previous editions. Issue price is $135.

-Tony Perrone