For 1949, Packard marked its Golden Anniversary in grand fashion with a dealer drive-away of 2,000 gold-painted Packards.

For all models in the marque’s 50th anniversary 23rd Series (produced from mid-1949 through August 1950), Packard upgraded the trim; the front bumpers showcased full chrome, versus the painted centers from the previous year, in addition to center-placed side trim on certain models.

For the Super Deluxe Eight models, including this rare Victoria Convertible Coupe, full fender skirts were standard.

Chrome work was upgraded to be nearly identical to that of the more-expensive Custom models, including the fitment of a striking “eggcrate”-style front grille and a similarly styled rear accent piece below the rear trunk opening.

These changes, coupled with the availability of an incredibly varied line-up of models, resonated with the American public, helping to make 1949 the second-largest production year in the company’s history.

One of only 671 produced for the year...