Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn
As Rolls-Royce's first model with a standard factory body, the Silver Dawn offers post-war elegance in a more approachable, owner-driver package. It's valued by collectors for its rarity and historical place within the brand, representing an attainable entry into classic Rolls-Royce ownership.
Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn sold for a median of $27,890 over the last 12 months, based on 7 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $20,406 and $32,632. 17 currently for sale.
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Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn prices by year
| Year | Median (3 yrs) | Middle 50% | Sales (3 yrs) | For sale now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1949 | $28k | – | 1 | 1 |
| 1950 | $20k | – | 2 | 1 |
| 1952 | $91k | – | 2 | 4 |
| 1953 | $52k | $28k–$77k | 4 | 8 |
| 1954 | $37k | $35k–$46k | 5 | 0 |
| 1955 | $50k | – | 2 | 1 |
Auction sales in the last 3 years; prices leave out salvage and other branded titles.
Listings
The Silver Dawn was a landmark model for Rolls-Royce. Produced from 1949 to 1955, it was the first car from the company offered with a factory-supplied 'standard steel' body, sharing its chassis and bodywork with the Bentley Mark VI. Initially built for export only, it was powered by an inline-6 engine that grew from 4.25 to 4.5 liters during its run. With only 760 examples built, its rarity is a key part of its appeal.
Collectors appreciate the Silver Dawn for its historical significance and its more manageable, owner-driver proportions compared to the larger Phantom models of the era. It offers classic post-war British luxury without the need for a chauffeur. Its shared platform with Bentley also makes some parts and service knowledge more accessible than for other, more esoteric models.
Buying Tips
- Rust is the primary concern. Inspect the chassis, sills, wheel arches, and floor pans carefully. The steel body is mounted on a separate frame, so a thorough underbody inspection is critical.
- Interior refurbishment is exceptionally expensive. Carefully check the condition of the wood veneer for cracking and delamination, and inspect the leather seats for dryness and splits.
- The inline-6 engine is robust, but a complete service history is a major plus. Pay attention to signs of deferred maintenance like oil leaks and coolant system issues.
- Confirm the one-shot chassis lubrication system works. Failure of this system leads to accelerated wear on suspension and steering components.
- Differentiate between standard steel saloons and the much rarer, more valuable cars fitted with custom coachwork from firms like Park Ward or H.J. Mulliner.
253 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 17 currently live.
Data sourced from auction results and dealer and private listings, including Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Mecum, RM Sotheby’s and eBay Motors. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn cost?
Over the last 12 months, Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn sold for a median of $27,890 across 7 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $20,406 and $32,632. There are 17 currently for sale.
How many Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn listings are for sale right now?
There are 17 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.