How much is a 1947 Ford Super Deluxe convertible worth?
A 1947 Ford Super Deluxe convertible typically ranges from about $25,000 for a project car to $60,000–$90,000 or more for a fully restored, show-quality example. Market values depend on condition, originality, provenance, and recent sale activity. This article outlines how prices are determined and what you can expect in today’s market.
Current market landscape
Values for classic Ford convertibles from the immediate postwar era are influenced by condition, documented history, and the level of restoration. Collectors prize correct detailing, period-correct components, and a solid mechanical baseline. Auction results, dealer listings, and valuation guides collectively shape the going rate.
Auction activity and price guides
Recent auction activity and the published price guides (such as Hagerty, NADA, and ClassicCars.com) provide the best real-time signals for price ranges. While individual cars can command above or below these ranges, the figures below reflect common market behavior for drivable, well-presented examples.
Factors that influence value
The price you see for a 1947 Ford Super Deluxe convertible depends on several aspects. The following factors are commonly considered by collectors and appraisers:
- Overall condition and completeness of the car
- Originality, including number-matching engine and components
- Quality and accuracy of the restoration
- Documentation such as restoration invoices, build sheets, and ownership history
- Period-correct color choices, interior materials, and top mechanism
- Rarity and provenance (e.g., notable previous owners or awards)
- Current market demand and recent sale results
In summary, these factors drive wide price variability and are the primary levers buyers and sellers use to negotiate value.
Typical price ranges by condition
Because condition and history drive value, here are broad ranges you’ll commonly encounter in today’s market. Note that individual examples can stray from these bands based on provenance and originality.
- Concours/restoration-quality (showroom or near-perfect): $60,000–$100,000+, with documented, original cars sometimes reaching higher amounts
- Excellent driver or high-quality restoration: $40,000–$70,000
- Good driver or solid, driveable project: $25,000–$40,000
- Project or heavily incomplete restoration: $15,000–$25,000
These ranges reflect current market activity across major valuation guides and auction results. Individual results will vary based on the car’s history, originality, and how well the restoration was executed.
What to check when buying
For buyers evaluating a 1947 Ford Super Deluxe convertible, focus on mechanical and cosmetic integrity, as well as documentation. The checklist below helps separate strong value opportunities from overpaying:
- VIN, title status, and body/frame numbers to verify authenticity
- Engine and transmission matching numbers and condition
- Rocker panels, floor pans, and chassis for rust or structural issues
- Condition of the convertible top mechanism, brakes, steering, and suspension
- Overall fit and finish of trim, chrome, upholstery, and dashboards
- Availability of restoration records, receipts, and provenance
- Recent maintenance history and any known mechanical or electrical issues
Always consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified classic-car specialist and cross-check values with multiple guides before committing to a purchase.
Where to check current values
To verify up-to-date pricing, consult established valuation guides and recent auction results. Key sources include Hagerty Price Guide, NADA Classic Car Guide, and ClassicCars.com Price Guide, along with marquee auction houses (e.g., RM Sotheby’s, Gooding & Co., Barrett-Jackson) for recent sales of similar cars.
Summary
In today’s market, a 1947 Ford Super Deluxe convertible sits in a broad value spectrum—from mid-20s thousands for project cars to the upper tens of thousands for well-restored, show-ready examples. The final price depends on condition, originality, provenance, and how the car has been maintained or restored. Prospective buyers should use multiple valuation sources, inspect carefully, and seek professional appraisals when necessary. A well-documented, correctly restored example with matching numbers will generally command the strongest price, while project cars offer the most upside potential for dedicated buyers.
