1920 Rolls-Royce 40/50 HP Silver Ghost

1920 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost Coupe Chauffeur by Henri Binder

Specifications

• Make: Rolls-Royce
• Model: Silver Ghost
• Year: 1920
• Coachwork: Coupe Chauffeur by Henri Binder
• Chassis Number: 60RE
• Engine: 7,428 cc inline six-cylinder, side-valve
• Power Output: 40/50 hp (taxable)
• Transmission: Four-speed manual
• Suspension:
  • Live front axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs and friction dampers
  • Cantilever rear suspension
• Brakes: Four-wheel drum brakes with a gearbox-driven servo
• Wheelbase: 3,810 mm

A Rolls-Royce of Distinction with French Refinement

The 1920 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost stands as one of the most revered luxury automobiles of its time, embodying both British engineering excellence and French Art Deco craftsmanship. Originally delivered to Monsieur Vallee in Parisin October 1920, it was first registered under Parisian registration 5447 RN9. This car was meticulously maintained at Rolls-Royce’s Paris depot, where it received continuous technical upgrades to remain at the forefront of motoring innovation.

While originally fitted with a limousine body by Carrosserie Charpentier, the car underwent a significant transformation in 1930, when it was rebodied by Henri Binder, one of France’s most celebrated coachbuilders.

Exquisite Coachwork by Henri Binder

As part of its Binder rebody, the Silver Ghost was enhanced with:

• A higher radiator and shutters, bringing it in line with contemporary Rolls-Royce Phantom I aesthetics
• The addition of Grebel headlights, a signature feature of elite French automobiles
• Luxurious interior refinements, including Thuja wood trim, sourced from Moroccan Bedouin craftsmen, a material rarely seen in automobiles of the period

The Binder body was designed to offer both elegance and functionality, serving as an ideal chauffeur-driven luxury car for distinguished clientele in Paris.

A Well-Traveled Provenance

Over the decades, the Silver Ghost has passed through the hands of notable collectors and enthusiasts, ensuring its continuous preservation:

• April 1972: Exported to the United States and owned by respected Rolls-Royce collector Roger Morrison of Salina, Kansas
• 1986: Acquired by Walter Spilsbury, a long-time Rolls-Royce Owners' Club member
• 1998: Inherited by Terry Spilsbury, continuing its careful custodianship

The car has participated in numerous prestigious touring events, including:

• 2003 Alpine Rally, showcasing its reliability in challenging conditions
• 2004 Ghost to Coast Tour, a 4,000-mile trans-American journey, celebrating the centenary of the Silver Ghost

During its ownership, the Silver Ghost underwent:

• A full engine overhaul in 1991 by Frank Cooke’s Vintage Garage
• A comprehensive chassis-off restoration in 2003–2004, ensuring it remains in exceptional mechanical and aesthetic condition

A Testament to Rolls-Royce Craftsmanship

Finished in an elegant light blue, with a black leather chauffeur’s compartment and beige fabric rear seating, this Binder-bodied Silver Ghost is a remarkable blend of British engineering and Parisian coachbuilding artistry. With its rich history, unique coachwork, and meticulous preservation, this Silver Ghost stands as one of the finest formal chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royces of its era.

A true collector’s gem, it awaits an owner who appreciates authenticity, provenance, and the unparalleled luxury of early Rolls-Royce motorcars.