A Countess, A Portugese Criminal And A Barn Find

Presenting a unique piece of history: this extraordinary car, now available for sale at Volo Auto Museum, boasts a fascinating provenance entwined with two of the most captivating narratives of 20th-century Portugal.

It was specially ordered by the Count and Countess of Cacem, Portugal, who were prominent figures in Portuguese aristocracy, embodying the elegance and social prominence of the era. The Countess was often noted for her charitable endeavors and influential role in high society, while the Count was recognized for his involvement in political and economic affairs. Their residence, a grand estate in Cacém, served as a hub for cultural gatherings and elite social events, reflecting their status and contributing significantly to the cultural tapestry of early 20th-century Portugal.

Volo Auto Museum | 1929 Packard 640 Sport Phaeton | $262,998.00

Later it was acquired by Alves de reis and tied to one of the greatest frauds in history! Alves de Reis, the infamous criminal was photographed and even interviewed in this car. Alves dos Reis masterminded one of the most audacious financial frauds in history, known as the "Portuguese Bank Note Crisis." Posing as a representative of the Bank of Portugal, Reis forged documents to authorize the printing of 200 million escudos, a massive sum at the time. Using these counterfeit banknotes, he acquired significant assets and even attempted to gain control of a major Portuguese bank. The fraud was eventually uncovered in 1925, leading to a major scandal that shook the Portuguese financial system and resulted in Reis's arrest and imprisonment.

It was then kept in storage in a palace in Lisbon until the late 1960s when a Navy officer bought it. It finally returned back to the US in 1980.

Today the car is available for sale at Volo Auto Mueum, Volo, Iliniois.

Volo Auto Sales | 1929 Packard 640 Sport Phaeton | $262,998.00

The car is a stunning example of rolling artwork with an impressive presence. It features a tall chrome grill, long hood, low cut doors, open cockpit, and dual sidemount wheels. The body is professionally restored with polished paint and sparkling chrome. Key features include Trippe lights, a stone guard, Goddess of Speed ornament, cowl lights, a spotlight, foldable chrome windshield with wing windows, restored wire wheels with white wall tires, a luggage rack, and a fully restored trunk. The Haartz cloth convertible top and side curtains, along with user-friendly turn signals and an extended tail pipe, enhance its functionality. Inside, it boasts red leather upholstery, burl wood compartments, premium carpet, a wood-trimmed dash, and pristine gauges. The rebuilt straight 8 motor and 3-speed transmission are properly dated. Recognized by the Classic Car Club of America, this beautifully restored car is a valuable investment eligible for club events.

If you are interested in exploring advertising with us, I encourage you to get in touch. Please feel free to contact me directly, and I will be more than happy to provide you with further information, answer any questions you may have, and guide you through the process.

Nick Aylieff | Classic Motors For Sale | sales@classicmotorsforsale.com  +44(0) 2392 160 809 | www.classicmotorsforsale.com