Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is one of the most breathtaking custom-bodied pre-war automobiles in existence: a Mercedes-Benz 540K featuring bespoke, fully enclosed aerodynamic coachwork by Berlin coachbuilder Erdmann & Rossi. Originally commissioned for King Ghazi of Iraq, it represents the absolute zenith of Streamline Moderne automotive sculpture.
Story
Commissioned in 1935 for King Ghazi of Iraq, this singular aerodynamic roadster combined German engineering with radical Art Deco styling. It survived wars and decades hidden away before entering the royal collection of King Hussein of Jordan.
Maker / Origin
Erdmann & Rossi was a prestigious German coachbuilding firm in Berlin-Halensee renowned for crafting ultra-luxurious, custom bodies for royalty and celebrities. Their late 1930s streamliners, heavily inspired by aviation and aerodynamic patents of Paul Jaray, remain legendary masterworks of coachbuilt design.
Condition & Value
Shown in meticulously restored, concours/museum-grade display condition. Flawless coachwork finish and complete preservation ensure top-tier historical value. One-off pre-war supercharged Mercedes-Benz 540Ks with royal provenance and bespoke coachwork represent the pinnacle of automotive collecting, comparable to the most valuable Bugattis and Special Roadsters ever sold at auction.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Your first full report is on us.
See sold comps, value drivers, and where to sell. One complimentary report, no card required.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.