Broad Arrow Auctions Presents the Academy of Art University Collection

Broad Arrow Auctions has announced that it will present The Academy of Art University Collection as a stand-alone auction in San Francisco on February 15, 2025.

The collection is made up of more than 100 cars—including both pre- and post-War American, European, and British vehicles. All will be offered without reserve.

The Academy of Art University Automobile Museum’s mission has been to preserve an integral piece of international automotive history and to provide students of the Academy a unique art and design perspective. It was started and managed by longtime President of the Academy and automotive enthusiast, Dr. Richard Alan Stephens, and subsequently taken over by his daughter, Dr. Elisa Stephens.

The Academy is now looking to modernize its collection to suit a new generation of students. As such, this sale is a chance to pass on a portion of the collection for like-minded enthusiasts and collectors to enjoy.

*Robin Adams © 2024 Courtesy of Broad Arrow Auctions*

“We are truly honored to offer The Academy of Art University Collection at auction,” said Caroline Cassini, Senior Car Specialist for Broad Arrow Auctions and alumna of the Automotive Restoration program at the Academy of Art University. “This collection of automotive masterpieces paints a picture of watershed moments in motoring history and design, with a host of exciting examples on offer to suit a variety of collecting tastes. I look forward to welcoming collectors and enthusiasts to my alma mater this winter for a must-attend auction event.”

“This outstanding offering of classic cars is emblematic of everything the University prized in automotive design and engineering,” said Dr. Elisa Stephens, President of The Academy of Art University Collection. “We are thoroughly excited to know that many of these outstanding examples will become celebrated parts of other substantial collections worldwide. As the University continues its mission, we remain focused on preserving the revised collection for generations to come.”

Highlights from the collection include:

A matching-numbers 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing Coupe (Estimate: $1,200,000 – $1,500,000) offered in Strawberry Red Metallic over a natural leather interior and outfitted with a matching two-piece set of custom-crafted luggage. The Gullwing was restored by marque experts at Hjeltness Restorations and has been part of the collection for 15 years.

A 1932 Marmon Sixteen Convertible Sedan with Coachwork by LeBaron (Estimate: $300,000 – $400,000), originally owned by J. Paul Getty, the patriarch of the Getty family. This blue and grey two-tone Marmon features detailed Art Deco styling throughout. It was given a multiple-award winning, nut-and-bolt restoration in the 1990s.

A 1934 Packard Twelve 1108 Convertible Victoria (Estimate: $300,000 – $400,000), believed to have been owned by actor Cesar Romero when new. This car was shown at the 1955 and 2008 Pebble Concours d’Elegance, and is equipped with the rare optional in-dash radio and side mount covers.

A 1931 Minerva AL Convertible Sedan with Coachwork by Rollston (Estimate: $400,000 – $500,000). This is said to be one of approximately 50 examples built and one of less than 12 that are known to survive. The car wears a multiple award-winning restoration completed by Steve Babinsky in 1998.

A 1933 Chrysler Custom Imperial Dual-Windshield Phaeton with Coachwork by LeBaron (Estimate: $900,000 – $1,200,000). This is the personal car of LeBaron designer Ralph Roberts — and it’s thought to be the final Series CL Custom Imperial Dual-Windshield Phaeton built. It’s finished in its original Moon Glow Blue polychromatic paint with a tan leather interior. Ownership history from new includes the Otis Chandler, Milhous, and Judge Joseph Cassini Collections. 

A 1937 Squire 1 1/2-Liter Drophead Coupe with Coachwork by Corsica (Estimate: $400,000 – $600,000), from the final group of three cars completed. This car features restored Corsica coachwork and an interior in pale blue leather with wood trim and an engine-turned dashboard. It has been on feature display at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and The Quail and is an Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance award winner.

Learn more about the event — and the cars — here.