History About The Mercury Automotive Division:
Mercury was founded in 1937 by Edsel Ford as a bridge between the top-end Fords and the base Lincolns of the time. It was a brand that arguably struggled with an identity during its primitive years but ultimately hit full stride after the war. Introduced in 1939, the Mercury Eight started life with a flathead and really came into its own with the release of the third generation in 1949. As the first post-war Mercury, it came out swinging with a larger 255ci Flathead V8 and unique styling that better differentiated it from its Ford roots. This new integrated “ponton” fender design helped Mercury break sales records in 1949. With many finding their way into the hands of customizers immediately from dealer showrooms, finding an uncut, un-chopped, or unmodified example today can be very difficult!

Details About Our Classic Mercury For Sale:
We are proud to represent a stunning original, 1949 Mercury Eight Coupe finished in its factory code correct (18)-Berwick Green with code correct (58K)-Green Checkered Broadcloth interior. Powering this 6-passenger Coupe is its original 255ci Flathead V8 engine producing 110 horsepower mated to a 3-speed manual transmission. Our Mercury Eight features “Finger-Tip” weather control heater/defrost system, Mercury AM radio with tone select, an electric clock on the dash, amber fog lamps, grill guard, front & rear bumper guards, Mercury Deluxe full size disc wheels with Firestone wide whitewall tires, vent window air deflectors, gas door trim surround, oil-bath air cleaner, driver side Unity spotlight & rearview mirror, fender skirts, and a reproduction owner's manual.

A sharp looking Mercury Coupe showcasing one high quality repaint under former ownership, this Mercury remains otherwise in unmodified condition retaining many of the factory features it was born with. This vehicle originally delivered on October 14th, 1949, to Joliet Lincoln-Mercury Sales in Joliet, Illinois. It became part of the esteemed Robert Jones' private collection in 2017 where it was surrounded by approximately 80 other era correct FOMOCO vehicles, automobilia, gas pumps, and neon signs in the Akron, Ohio area. His collection was even visited by a very impressed Jay Leno at one point. While this vehicle was in his care, the radiator was re-cored, new hoses installed, and fresh drive belts fitted. It was carefully maintained annually but driven sparingly.

It was later acquired through the Jones estate by the St. Louis Car Museum in October of 2022 and has since received 4 new wheel cylinders, a brake light switch, blower motor switch, distributor cap & rotor, along with an engine oil change, transmission flush, differential flush, brake system flush & bleed, and full chassis lubrication. The odometer reading today shows just 63,348 which are believed to be actual from new.

The appeal of the 1949 Mercury Coupe grew with James Dean behind the wheel of a slightly modified example in “Rebel Without a Cause.” Their desire remains very strong today, representing one of the more cherished post-war American designs, especially in virtually untouched condition like this one. Close inspection of the factory tags, body stampings, inspection markings, and all original safety-glass support this as one very special survivor! To learn more about our 1940s Mercury for sale, contact Jon Faust by calling (800)957-5707 or by emailing info@stlouiscarmuseum.com. Finance & shipping options available!