1956 Jaguar D-Type Set to Fetch Up to $7 Million at Auction
Written with artificial intelligence.
The 1956 Jaguar D-Type, known for its rich racing history, will be auctioned by Gooding Christie’s on November 21, with an estimated sale price of $6 million to $7 million. This example has seen extensive use in prestigious events and retains many original components.
A Racing Legacy
The 1956 Jaguar D-Type, chassis No. XKD 552, stands out among the 71 examples produced between 1954 and 1957. Unlike most D-Types that remain in climate-controlled storage, this vehicle has an active racing history, driven by its current owner in several high-profile events including the Monaco Historic Grand Prix and the Goodwood Revival.
Auction Details
This D-Type will be offered at the inaugural Gooding Christie’s Retromobile New York auction on November 21. Angus Dykman, a specialist at Gooding Christie’s, emphasizes the car's unique history and racing pedigree, noting that it has participated in premier motorsport events, making it a prime candidate for collectors.
Historical Significance
Originally completed in mid-1956, this D-Type was initially painted Battleship Grey and struggled to find a buyer before being sold to South African racer John Manussis. Over its lifetime, the car has changed hands multiple times and undergone various repaints, now showcasing a pale yellow finish after a restoration by Jaguar specialist Terry Larson.
Price Estimate
Gooding Christie’s has set a sale estimate of $6 million to $7 million for this well-preserved D-Type, notably lower than the record $21.78 million achieved by a Le Mans-winning D-Type in 2016. Dykman describes this estimate as an approachable figure for collectors seeking a car with a compelling history and authenticity.