---
title: Duesenberg Model J · HICONIUM
description: "Duesenberg sold the Model J as an $8'500 chassis; Murphy, Derham and LeBaron determined the car it became. Its 420-cubic-inch twin-cam straight-eight made a factory-rated 265 bhp. Value follows chassis, engine and body."
canonical_url: https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j
image: https://hiconium.dev/og/vehicle/duesenberg/model-j.png
market_as_of: "2026-09-01"
---

> HICONIUM · Index: https://hiconium.dev/llms.txt · Every page: append `.md` or send `Accept: text/markdown`.
> Path: [Home](https://hiconium.dev/) › [Vehicles](https://hiconium.dev/models) › [Duesenberg](https://hiconium.dev/manufacturers/duesenberg) › Model J
> On this page: [The price and the proof](#the-price-and-the-proof) · [Model readouts](#model-readouts) · [Documented sales](#documented-sales) · [A racing engineer given an unrestricted brief](#overview-heading) · [Technical specifications](#technical-specifications) · [Powertrain](#powertrain) · [Chassis](#chassis) · [Performance and instruments](#performance-and-instruments) · [Model J register](#model-j-register) · [The people behind the car](#the-people-behind-the-car) · [Fred Duesenberg](#fred-duesenberg) · [E.L. Cord](#el-cord) · [Gordon M. Buehrig](#gordon-m-buehrig) · [Member instruments](#member-instruments)

![A burgundy and black Duesenberg Model J roadster, front three-quarter view on a burgundy field with golden light](https://hiconium.dev/images/cars/duesenberg-model-j/hero-wide-2560.jpg)

# Model J

Coachwork sets the value

Duesenberg sold the Model J as an $8'500 chassis; Murphy, Derham and LeBaron determined the car it became. Its 420-cubic-inch twin-cam straight-eight made a factory-rated 265 bhp. Value follows chassis, engine and body.

1928 to 1937 · 481 built · Indianapolis

## The price and the proof

Indicative road-car band $1.0M–$3.0M · typical $1.7M · 92 documented road sales · 92 recorded sales on file · market as of 2026-09-01. Modeled values are not observed sales. Nothing here is investment advice.

Confidence: medium. Seven direct auction records document a wide USD market from 2011 through 2025. The band covers accepted, non-supercharged Model J cars with established coachwork; body style, originality, matching components, restoration and provenance can move one car far outside it.

Indicative USD range for standard Model J cars. Factory-supercharged SJ and SSJ cars, singular bodies and major provenance require chassis-specific valuation.

| Record | Amount | What | Venue | Date |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Road record | $10'340'000 | 1931 Model J Whittell Coupe by Murphy | Gooding & Company Pebble Beach | 2011 |
| Road record | $4'405'000 | 1935 Model J Torpedo Phaeton by Walker-LaGrande | RM Sotheby's Monterey | 2025 |

Valuation method and source rules: [HICONIUM standards](https://hiconium.dev/standards). Observed auction results across the wider market: [Market terminal](https://hiconium.dev/market).

### Model readouts

92 documented anchors. model v1 · seed duesenberg-model-j. Compound annual growth is modeled price CAGR; S&P 500 is a price index without dividends. Forecast quantiles are not investment advice.

| Window | This car* | S&P 500 | Gold |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1Y | -34.3% | +18.8% | +21.9% |
| 5Y | -13.5% | +11.4% | +17.6% |
| 10Y | +0.7% | +13.3% | +11.8% |

| Series | Deepest drawdown | Window |
| --- | --- | --- |
| This car* | -99.8% | May 2003 → Aug 2004 · recovered Jan 2008 |
| S&P 500 | -50.8% | Oct 2007 → Mar 2009 · recovered Mar 2013 |
| Gold | -39.3% | Sep 2011 → Dec 2015 · recovered Jul 2020 |

| Horizon | P10 | P50 | P90 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| +6M | $1'358'884 | $1'648'495 | $1'999'829 |
| +12M | $1'258'146 | $1'643'175 | $2'146'035 |
| +24M | $1'120'873 | $1'632'586 | $2'377'912 |

### Documented sales

92 recorded. Every public sale on this file, newest first. Amounts keep the recorded currency. Source links appear only when the catalog stores a public auction-lot URL.

| Date | Chassis / label | Class | House | Venue | Amount | Currency | Basis | Source |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 2026-03-07 | Broad Arrow Auctions · The Amelia Auction, Amelia Island, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | Broad Arrow Auctions | The Amelia Auction, Amelia Island, USA | $1'655'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.broadarrowauctions.com/vehicles/am26_r0025/1935-duesenberg-supercharged-model-j-lagrande-dual-cowl-phaeton](https://www.broadarrowauctions.com/vehicles/am26_r0025/1935-duesenberg-supercharged-model-j-lagrande-dual-cowl-phaeton) |
| 2026-01-18 | 2026 | Road | Mecum | Kissimmee 2026 - Highlights, Kissimmee, USA | $1'017'500 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.mecum.com/lots/1155427/1929-duesenberg-model-j-lagrande-blind-quarter-brougham/](https://www.mecum.com/lots/1155427/1929-duesenberg-model-j-lagrande-blind-quarter-brougham/) |
| 2025-09-20 | gooding · The Stan Lucas Collection Auction · incl. buyer's premium | Road | gooding | The Stan Lucas Collection Auction | $3'085'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.goodingco.com/lot/1934-duesenberg-model-j-disappearing-top-roadster](https://www.goodingco.com/lot/1934-duesenberg-model-j-disappearing-top-roadster) |
| 2025-08-16 | RM Sotheby's · Monterey, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Monterey, USA | $4'405'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/auctions/mo25/lots/r0067-1935-duesenberg-model-j-torpedo-phaeton-by-walkerlagrande/](https://rmsothebys.com/auctions/mo25/lots/r0067-1935-duesenberg-model-j-torpedo-phaeton-by-walkerlagrande/) |
| 2025-08-16 | 2025 | Road | Mecum | Monterey 2025 - Highlights, Monterey, USA | $1'320'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.mecum.com/lots/1149405/1932-duesenberg-model-j-sweep-panel-dual-cowl-phaeton/](https://www.mecum.com/lots/1149405/1932-duesenberg-model-j-sweep-panel-dual-cowl-phaeton/) |
| 2025-03-08 | 2025 | Road | Broad Arrow Auctions | The Amelia Auction 2025, Amelia Island, USA | $252'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.broadarrowauctions.com/vehicles/am25_r038/1981-duesenberg-ii-model-j-boattail-speedster](https://www.broadarrowauctions.com/vehicles/am25_r038/1981-duesenberg-ii-model-j-boattail-speedster) |
| 2025-03-06 | 2025 | Road | gooding | Amelia Island Auctions 2025 | $2'342'500 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.goodingco.com/lot/1931-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-sedan-1a](https://www.goodingco.com/lot/1931-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-sedan-1a) |
| 2024-08-17 | RM Sotheby's · Monterey, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Monterey, USA | $1'875'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/auctions/mo24/lots/r0151-1929-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-coupe-by-murphy/](https://rmsothebys.com/auctions/mo24/lots/r0151-1929-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-coupe-by-murphy/) |
| 2024-08-16 | 2024 | Road | gooding | Pebble Beach Auctions 2024 | $1'077'500 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.goodingco.com/lot/1929-duesenberg-model-j-town-car](https://www.goodingco.com/lot/1929-duesenberg-model-j-town-car) |
| 2024-08-16 | 2024 | Road | gooding | Pebble Beach Auctions 2024 | $3'745'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.goodingco.com/lot/1934-duesenberg-model-j-disappearing-top-convertible-coupe-1](https://www.goodingco.com/lot/1934-duesenberg-model-j-disappearing-top-convertible-coupe-1) |
| 2024-03-02 | RM Sotheby's · Miami, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Miami, USA | $3'855'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mi24/miami/lots/r0058-1930-duesenberg-model-j-disappearing-top-convertible-coupe-by-murphy/1443146](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mi24/miami/lots/r0058-1930-duesenberg-model-j-disappearing-top-convertible-coupe-by-murphy/1443146) |
| 2024-02-29 | 2024 | Road | gooding | Amelia Island Auctions 2024 | $2'645'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.goodingco.com/lot/1931-duesenberg-model-j-disappearing-top-convertible-coupe-1](https://www.goodingco.com/lot/1931-duesenberg-model-j-disappearing-top-convertible-coupe-1) |
| 2023-08-19 | Gooding Christie's · Pebble Beach Auctions, Pebble Beach, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | Gooding Christie's | Pebble Beach Auctions, Pebble Beach, USA | $2'975'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.goodingco.com/lot/1930-duesenberg-model-j-dual-cowl-barrelside-phaeton/?filtersInput%5BauctionType%5D%5B0%5D=Live+Auction&filtersInput%5BauctionYear%5D%5B0%5D=2023&filtersInput%5BliveAuctionVenue%5D%5B0%5D=Pebble+Beach&sortBy=ENDING_SOONEST&pageNumber=2](https://www.goodingco.com/lot/1930-duesenberg-model-j-dual-cowl-barrelside-phaeton/?filtersInput%5BauctionType%5D%5B0%5D=Live+Auction&filtersInput%5BauctionYear%5D%5B0%5D=2023&filtersInput%5BliveAuctionVenue%5D%5B0%5D=Pebble+Beach&sortBy=ENDING_SOONEST&pageNumber=2) |
| 2023-08-19 | RM Sotheby's · Monterey, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Monterey, USA | $1'710'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mo23/monterey/lots/r0082-1931-duesenberg-model-j-tourster-by-derham/1358285](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mo23/monterey/lots/r0082-1931-duesenberg-model-j-tourster-by-derham/1358285) |
| 2023-08-18 | bonhams · Carmel, Quail Lodge & Golf Club · hammer | Road | bonhams | Carmel, Quail Lodge & Golf Club | $1'020'000 | USD | hammer | [https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/28011/lot/27P/1932-duesenberg-model-j-sweep-panel-dual-cowl-phaeton-chassis-no-2841-engine-no-j-474-see-text/](https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/28011/lot/27P/1932-duesenberg-model-j-sweep-panel-dual-cowl-phaeton-chassis-no-2841-engine-no-j-474-see-text/) |
| 2023-08-18 | Bonhams · The Quail Auction, Carmel, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | Bonhams | The Quail Auction, Carmel, USA | $1'127'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.bonhams.com/auction/28011/lot/27P/1932-duesenberg-model-j-sweep-panel-dual-cowl-phaeton-chassis-no-2841-engine-no-j-474-see-text/](https://www.bonhams.com/auction/28011/lot/27P/1932-duesenberg-model-j-sweep-panel-dual-cowl-phaeton-chassis-no-2841-engine-no-j-474-see-text/) |
| 2023-08-18 | Broad Arrow Auctions · Radius at the Monterey Jet Center, Monterey, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | Broad Arrow Auctions | Radius at the Monterey Jet Center, Monterey, USA | $1'380'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.broadarrowauctions.com/vehicles/jc23_014/1930-duesenberg-model-j-murphy-convertible-sedan](https://www.broadarrowauctions.com/vehicles/jc23_014/1930-duesenberg-model-j-murphy-convertible-sedan) |
| 2023-08-18 | Broad Arrow Auctions · Radius at the Monterey Jet Center, Monterey, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | Broad Arrow Auctions | Radius at the Monterey Jet Center, Monterey, USA | $1'435'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.broadarrowauctions.com/vehicles/jc23_093/1930-duesenberg-model-j-hibbard-darrin-transformable-cabriolet](https://www.broadarrowauctions.com/vehicles/jc23_093/1930-duesenberg-model-j-hibbard-darrin-transformable-cabriolet) |
| 2023-08-18 | 2023 | Road | gooding | Pebble Beach Auctions 2023 | $2'975'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.goodingco.com/lot/1930-duesenberg-model-j-dual-cowl-barrelside-phaeton](https://www.goodingco.com/lot/1930-duesenberg-model-j-dual-cowl-barrelside-phaeton) |
| 2023-03-04 | RM Sotheby's · Amelia Island, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Amelia Island, USA | $4'295'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am23/amelia-island/lots/r0042-1931-duesenberg-model-j-disappearing-top-convertible-coupe-by-murphy/1326359](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am23/amelia-island/lots/r0042-1931-duesenberg-model-j-disappearing-top-convertible-coupe-by-murphy/1326359) |
| 2023-03-04 | RM Sotheby's · Amelia Island, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Amelia Island, USA | $1'490'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am23/amelia-island/lots/r0018-1930-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-berline-by-murphy/1314368](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am23/amelia-island/lots/r0018-1930-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-berline-by-murphy/1314368) |
| 2023-03-02 | 2023 | Road | gooding | Amelia Island Auctions 2023 | $2'205'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.goodingco.com/lot/1931-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-sedan-1](https://www.goodingco.com/lot/1931-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-sedan-1) |
| 2023-01-26 | RM Sotheby's · Arizona, Phoenix, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Arizona, Phoenix, USA | $1'050'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/az23/arizona/lots/r0051-1931-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-sedan-by-lebaron/1314372](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/az23/arizona/lots/r0051-1931-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-sedan-by-lebaron/1314372) |
| 2022-09-03 | Worldwide Auctioneers · The Auburn Auction - Highlights, Auburn, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | Worldwide Auctioneers | The Auburn Auction - Highlights, Auburn, USA | $3'305'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/117245](https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/117245) |
| 2022-09-03 | Worldwide Auctioneers · The Auburn Auction - Highlights, Auburn, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | Worldwide Auctioneers | The Auburn Auction - Highlights, Auburn, USA | $857'500 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://glenmarch.com/cars/results](https://glenmarch.com/cars/results) |
| 2022-08-20 | 2022 | Road | Mecum | Monterey 2022 - Highlights, Monterey, USA | $2'695'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.mecum.com/lots/CA0822-520589/1936-duesenberg-model-j-rollston-convertible-berline/](https://www.mecum.com/lots/CA0822-520589/1936-duesenberg-model-j-rollston-convertible-berline/) |
| 2022-08-20 | RM Sotheby's · Monterey, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Monterey, USA | $4'680'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mo22/monterey/lots/r0112-1935-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-coupe-by-rollston/1266008](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mo22/monterey/lots/r0112-1935-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-coupe-by-rollston/1266008) |
| 2022-08-20 | RM Sotheby's · Monterey, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Monterey, USA | $1'061'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mo22/monterey/lots/r0033-1930-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-berline-by-lebaron/1244342](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mo22/monterey/lots/r0033-1930-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-berline-by-lebaron/1244342) |
| 2022-08-20 | RM Sotheby's · Monterey, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Monterey, USA | $1'710'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mo22/monterey/lots/r0113-1929-duesenberg-model-j-sport-sedan-by-murphy/1266010](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mo22/monterey/lots/r0113-1929-duesenberg-model-j-sport-sedan-by-murphy/1266010) |
| 2022-08-18 | Broad Arrow Auctions · The Monterey Jet Center Auction, Monterey, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | Broad Arrow Auctions | The Monterey Jet Center Auction, Monterey, USA | $1'000'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.broadarrowauctions.com/vehicles/jc22_062/1930-duesenberg-model-j-willoughby-limousine](https://www.broadarrowauctions.com/vehicles/jc22_062/1930-duesenberg-model-j-willoughby-limousine) |
| 2022-03-19 | 2022 | Road | Mecum | Glendale 2022 - Highlights, Glendale, USA | $2'365'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.mecum.com/lots/AZ0322-495629/1929-duesenberg-model-j-murphy-convertible-coupe/](https://www.mecum.com/lots/AZ0322-495629/1929-duesenberg-model-j-murphy-convertible-coupe/) |
| 2022-03-05 | RM Sotheby's · Amelia Island, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Amelia Island, USA | $3'525'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am22/amelia-island/lots/r0002-1930-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-sedan-by-murphy/1185214](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am22/amelia-island/lots/r0002-1930-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-sedan-by-murphy/1185214) |
| 2022-03-03 | bonhams · Fernandina Beach Golf Club · hammer | Road | bonhams | Fernandina Beach Golf Club | $965'000 | USD | hammer | [https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/27329/lot/255/1929-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-victoria-chassis-no-2474-firewall-no-2408-see-text-bell-housing-no-j-394-see-text/](https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/27329/lot/255/1929-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-victoria-chassis-no-2474-firewall-no-2408-see-text-bell-housing-no-j-394-see-text/) |
| 2022-01-27 | RM Sotheby's · Arizona, Phoenix, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Arizona, Phoenix, USA | $3'415'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/az22/arizona/lots/r0052-1931-duesenberg-model-j-tourster-by-derham/1197326](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/az22/arizona/lots/r0052-1931-duesenberg-model-j-tourster-by-derham/1197326) |
| 2022-01-26 | Worldwide Auctioneers · Scottsdale, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | Worldwide Auctioneers | Scottsdale, USA | $2'260'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/105553](https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/105553) |
| 2021-10-08 | RM Sotheby's · Hershey, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Hershey, USA | $1'650'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/hf21/hershey/lots/r0057-1931-duesenberg-model-j-roadster-green-hornet/1165490](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/hf21/hershey/lots/r0057-1931-duesenberg-model-j-roadster-green-hornet/1165490) |
| 2021-09-04 | Worldwide Auctioneers · The Auburn Auction, Auburn, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | Worldwide Auctioneers | The Auburn Auction, Auburn, USA | $665'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/98796](https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/98796) |
| 2021-09-04 | Worldwide Auctioneers · The Auburn Auction, Auburn, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | Worldwide Auctioneers | The Auburn Auction, Auburn, USA | $527'500 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/98759](https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/98759) |
| 2021-08-14 | RM Sotheby's · Monterey, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Monterey, USA | $3'125'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mo21/monterey/lots/r0041-1935-duesenberg-model-j-sweep-panel-dual-cowl-phaeton-by-lagrande/1110453](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mo21/monterey/lots/r0041-1935-duesenberg-model-j-sweep-panel-dual-cowl-phaeton-by-lagrande/1110453) |
| 2021-08-14 | 2021 | Road | Mecum | Monterey 2021 - Highlights, Monterey, USA | $2'365'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.mecum.com/lots/CA0821-481069/1929-duesenberg-model-j-murphy-convertible-sedan/](https://www.mecum.com/lots/CA0821-481069/1929-duesenberg-model-j-murphy-convertible-sedan/) |
| 2021-08-14 | RM Sotheby's · Monterey, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Monterey, USA | $3'305'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mo21/monterey/lots/r0130-1929-duesenberg-model-j-butterfly-dual-cowl-phaeton-by-murphy/1129892](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mo21/monterey/lots/r0130-1929-duesenberg-model-j-butterfly-dual-cowl-phaeton-by-murphy/1129892) |
| 2021-08-13 | 2021 | Road | gooding | Pebble Beach Auctions 2021 | $3'965'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.goodingco.com/lot/1930-duesenberg-model-j-disappearing-top-convertible-coupe-1](https://www.goodingco.com/lot/1930-duesenberg-model-j-disappearing-top-convertible-coupe-1) |
| 2021-05-22 | RM Sotheby's · Amelia Island, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Amelia Island, USA | $5'725'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am21/amelia-island/lots/r0007-1929-duesenberg-model-j-disappearing-top-torpedo-by-murphy/1019251](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am21/amelia-island/lots/r0007-1929-duesenberg-model-j-disappearing-top-torpedo-by-murphy/1019251) |
| 2021-05-20 | bonhams · Fernandina Beach Golf Club · hammer | Road | bonhams | Fernandina Beach Golf Club | $1'500'000 | USD | hammer | [https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/26618/lot/143/1933-duesenberg-model-j-sweep-panel-dual-cowl-phaeton-chassis-no-2355-see-catalog-engine-no-j-281-see-catalog-body-no-1007-see-catalog/](https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/26618/lot/143/1933-duesenberg-model-j-sweep-panel-dual-cowl-phaeton-chassis-no-2355-see-catalog-engine-no-j-281-see-catalog-body-no-1007-see-catalog/) |
| 2020-09-05 | 6140 | Road | RM Sotheby's | Auburn Fall, Auburn, USA | $632'500 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/af20/auburn-fall/lots/r0162-1936-duesenberg-model-j-tourster-in-the-style-of-derham/905364](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/af20/auburn-fall/lots/r0162-1936-duesenberg-model-j-tourster-in-the-style-of-derham/905364) |
| 2020-08-07 | Gooding Christie's · Geared Online Auction, Online, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | Gooding Christie's | Geared Online Auction, Online, USA | $1'012'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/79746/results](https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/79746/results) |
| 2020-03-07 | RM Sotheby's · Amelia Island, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Amelia Island, USA | $1'132'500 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am20/amelia-island/lots/r0051-1930-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-coupe-by-murphy/841528](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am20/amelia-island/lots/r0051-1930-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-coupe-by-murphy/841528) |
| 2020-03-07 | RM Sotheby's · Amelia Island, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Amelia Island, USA | $1'325'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am20/amelia-island/lots/r0044-1932-duesenberg-model-j-stationary-victoria-by-rollston/841490](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am20/amelia-island/lots/r0044-1932-duesenberg-model-j-stationary-victoria-by-rollston/841490) |
| 2020-01-12 | 2020 | Road | Mecum | Kissimmee 2020 - Highlights, Kissimmee, USA | $522'500 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.mecum.com/lots/FL0120-405806/1932-duesenberg-model-j-tourster/](https://www.mecum.com/lots/FL0120-405806/1932-duesenberg-model-j-tourster/) |
| 2019-10-11 | RM Sotheby's · Hershey, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Hershey, USA | $451'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/hf19/hershey/lots/r0189-1931-duesenberg-model-j-limousine-by-willoughby/805882](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/hf19/hershey/lots/r0189-1931-duesenberg-model-j-limousine-by-willoughby/805882) |
| 2019-08-17 | Gooding Christie's · The Pebble Beach Auctions, Pebble Beach, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | Gooding Christie's | The Pebble Beach Auctions, Pebble Beach, USA | $2'040'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/66721/results](https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/66721/results) |
| 2019-08-16 | Bonhams · Quail Lodge Auction, Carmel, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | Bonhams | Quail Lodge Auction, Carmel, USA | $478'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.bonhams.com//auctions/25221/lot/189/?category=list&length=100000&page=1](https://www.bonhams.com//auctions/25221/lot/189/?category=list&length=100000&page=1) |
| 2019-08-15 | bonhams · Carmel, Quail Lodge & Golf Club · hammer | Road | bonhams | Carmel, Quail Lodge & Golf Club | $430'000 | USD | hammer | [https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/25221/lot/189/1934-duesenberg-model-j-torpedo-phaeton-chassis-no-2579-engine-no-j555/](https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/25221/lot/189/1934-duesenberg-model-j-torpedo-phaeton-chassis-no-2579-engine-no-j555/) |
| 2019-05-05 | RM Sotheby's · The Guyton Collection, St. Louis, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | The Guyton Collection, St. Louis, USA | $1'105'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/gc19/the-guyton-collection/lots/r0035-1930-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-sedan-by-murphy/750677](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/gc19/the-guyton-collection/lots/r0035-1930-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-sedan-by-murphy/750677) |
| 2019-04-26 | bonhams · The Tupelo Automobile Museum · hammer | Road | bonhams | The Tupelo Automobile Museum | $405'000 | USD | hammer | [https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/25593/lot/450/1934-duesenberg-model-j-prince-of-wales-berline-chassis-no-2575-engine-no-j-547/](https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/25593/lot/450/1934-duesenberg-model-j-prince-of-wales-berline-chassis-no-2575-engine-no-j-547/) |
| 2019-03-17 | 2019 | Road | Mecum | Phoenix - Glendale 2019 - Highlights, Glendale, USA | $880'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.mecum.com/lots/AZ0319-366616/1932-duesenberg-model-j-rollston-torpedo-berline/](https://www.mecum.com/lots/AZ0319-366616/1932-duesenberg-model-j-rollston-torpedo-berline/) |
| 2019-03-09 | RM Sotheby's · Amelia Island, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Amelia Island, USA | $1'650'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am19/amelia-island/lots/r0020-1930-duesenberg-model-j-sweep-panel-dual-cowl-phaeton-by-lebaron/733253](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am19/amelia-island/lots/r0020-1930-duesenberg-model-j-sweep-panel-dual-cowl-phaeton-by-lebaron/733253) |
| 2019-01-13 | 2019 | Road | Mecum | Kissimmee 2019 - Highlights, Kissimmee, USA | $935'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.mecum.com/lots/FL0119-359621/1930-duesenberg-model-j-torpedo-phaeton/](https://www.mecum.com/lots/FL0119-359621/1930-duesenberg-model-j-torpedo-phaeton/) |
| 2018-11-17 | 2018 | Road | Mecum | Las Vegas 2018 - Highlights, Las Vegas, USA | $770'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.mecum.com/lots/LN1118-361297/1930-duesenberg-model-j-dual-cowl-phaeton/](https://www.mecum.com/lots/LN1118-361297/1930-duesenberg-model-j-dual-cowl-phaeton/) |
| 2018-09-02 | 3161 | Road | RM Sotheby's | Auburn Fall, Auburn, USA | $737'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/AF18/Auburn-Fall/lots/r0413-1929-duesenberg-model-j-sedan-by-derhambohman-schwartz/702281](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/AF18/Auburn-Fall/lots/r0413-1929-duesenberg-model-j-sedan-by-derhambohman-schwartz/702281) |
| 2018-08-25 | 2018 | Road | Mecum | Monterey 2018 - Highlights, Monterey, USA | $3'850'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.mecum.com/lots/CA0818-345832/1933-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-coupe-disappearing-top-roadster/](https://www.mecum.com/lots/CA0818-345832/1933-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-coupe-disappearing-top-roadster/) |
| 2018-08-25 | 2018 | Road | Mecum | Monterey 2018 - Highlights, Monterey, USA | $1'155'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.mecum.com/lots/CA0818-346398/1929-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-sedan/](https://www.mecum.com/lots/CA0818-346398/1929-duesenberg-model-j-convertible-sedan/) |
| 2017-10-06 | RM Sotheby's · Hershey, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Hershey, USA | $1'485'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/HF17/Hershey/lots/r104-1935-duesenberg-model-j-cabriolet-by-dieteren/430723](https://www.rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/HF17/Hershey/lots/r104-1935-duesenberg-model-j-cabriolet-by-dieteren/430723) |
| 2017-09-03 | 5098 | Road | RM Sotheby's | Auburn Fall - Highlights, Auburn, USA | $990'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/af17/auburn-fall/lots/r0005-1929-duesenberg-model-j/546675](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/af17/auburn-fall/lots/r0005-1929-duesenberg-model-j/546675) |
| 2017-08-19 | RM Sotheby's · Monterey, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Monterey, USA | $1'430'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/31911/results](https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/31911/results) |
| 2017-06-24 | RM Sotheby's · Santa Monica, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Santa Monica, USA | $880'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/29822/results](https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/29822/results) |
| 2017-01-22 | 1378 | Road | Barrett-Jackson | Top 10, Scottsdale, USA | $880'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.barrett-jackson.com/Events/Event/Details/1930-DUESENBERG-J-DUAL-COWL-PHAETON-201957](https://www.barrett-jackson.com/Events/Event/Details/1930-DUESENBERG-J-DUAL-COWL-PHAETON-201957) |
| 2016-10-07 | RM Sotheby's · Hershey, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Hershey, USA | $2'090'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/17962/results](https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/17962/results) |
| 2016-08-20 | RM Sotheby's · Monterey, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Monterey, USA | $1'320'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/4956](https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/4956) |
| 2016-08-19 | bonhams · Carmel, Quail Lodge & Golf Club · hammer | Road | bonhams | Carmel, Quail Lodge & Golf Club | $1'140'000 | USD | hammer | [https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/23425/lot/64/the-ex-nanaline-holt-inman-duke-1930-duesenberg-model-j-town-cabriolet/](https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/23425/lot/64/the-ex-nanaline-holt-inman-duke-1930-duesenberg-model-j-town-cabriolet/) |
| 2016-07-30 | RM Sotheby's · Motor City, Plymouth, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Motor City, Plymouth, USA | $1'540'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/12715](https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/12715) |
| 2016-03-11 | 2016 | Road | Gooding Christie's | The Amelia Island Auction 2016, Amelia Island, USA | $2'640'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/18028/results](https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/18028/results) |
| 2016-01-29 | RM Sotheby's · Arizona, Phoenix, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Arizona, Phoenix, USA | $3'000'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/12550](https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/12550) |
| 2015-09-26 | bonhams · Denmark, Ebeltoft · hammer | Road | bonhams | Denmark, Ebeltoft | DKK 15'500'000 | DKK | hammer | [https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/23234/lot/14/the-ex-shirley-carter-burden1930-duesenberg-model-j-disappearing-top-roadster-chassis-no-2346-engine-no-j330body-no-940/](https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/23234/lot/14/the-ex-shirley-carter-burden1930-duesenberg-model-j-disappearing-top-roadster-chassis-no-2346-engine-no-j330body-no-940/) |
| 2015-05-02 | RM Sotheby's · The Andrews Collection, Fort Worth, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | The Andrews Collection, Fort Worth, USA | $3'520'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/11513/results](https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/11513/results) |
| 2015-03-14 | RM Sotheby's · Amelia Island, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Amelia Island, USA | $1'155'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/12111](https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/12111) |
| 2014-08-16 | 2014 | Road | Mecum | Monterey 2014 - Highlights, Monterey, USA | $1'425'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.mecum.com/lots/CA0814-191307/1930-duesenberg-model-j-torpedo-berline-convertible/](https://www.mecum.com/lots/CA0814-191307/1930-duesenberg-model-j-torpedo-berline-convertible/) |
| 2014-01-18 | 2014 | Road | Gooding Christie's | The Scottsdale Auctions 2014, Scottsdale, USA | $2'090'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/56689/results](https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/56689/results) |
| 2014-01-17 | RM Sotheby's · Arizona, Phoenix, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Arizona, Phoenix, USA | $2'200'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/az14/arizona/lots/r104-1930-duesenberg-model-j-disappearing-top-convertible-coupe-by-murphy/182266](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/az14/arizona/lots/r104-1930-duesenberg-model-j-disappearing-top-convertible-coupe-by-murphy/182266) |
| 2013-08-18 | 2013 | Road | Gooding Christie's | Pebble Beach 2013, Pebble Beach, USA | $2'365'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/56757/results](https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/56757/results) |
| 2013-08-17 | 2013 | Road | Mecum | Monterey 2013 - Highlights, Monterey, USA | $950'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.mecum.com/lots/CA0813-161577/1930-duesenberg-model-j-torpedo-phaeton/](https://www.mecum.com/lots/CA0813-161577/1930-duesenberg-model-j-torpedo-phaeton/) |
| 2013-03-09 | RM Sotheby's · Amelia Island, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Amelia Island, USA | $825'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am13/amelia-island/lots/r126-1931-duesenberg-model-j-tourster-by-derham/293581](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am13/amelia-island/lots/r126-1931-duesenberg-model-j-tourster-by-derham/293581) |
| 2013-02-23 | bonhams · Boca Raton, Boca Raton Resort and Club · hammer | Road | bonhams | Boca Raton, Boca Raton Resort and Club | $635'000 | USD | hammer | [https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/21075/lot/321/ex-mrs-elcord-ex-pacific-auto-rentals1930-duesenberg-model-j-torpedo-phaeton-chassis-no-2276-engine-no-j-255/](https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/21075/lot/321/ex-mrs-elcord-ex-pacific-auto-rentals1930-duesenberg-model-j-torpedo-phaeton-chassis-no-2276-engine-no-j-255/) |
| 2013-02-08 | Artcurial · Rétromobile, Paris, France · incl. buyer's premium | Road | Artcurial | Rétromobile, Paris, France | €1'036'344 | EUR | incl. buyer's premium | [https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/56362/results](https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/56362/results) |
| 2013-01-20 | 5004 | Road | Barrett-Jackson | Highlights, Scottsdale, USA | $1'430'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://www.barrett-jackson.com/Events/Event/Details/1934-DUESENBERG-J-MURPHY-LWB-CUSTOM-BEVERLY-SEDAN-137872](https://www.barrett-jackson.com/Events/Event/Details/1934-DUESENBERG-J-MURPHY-LWB-CUSTOM-BEVERLY-SEDAN-137872) |
| 2013-01-19 | 2013 | Road | Gooding Christie's | The Scottsdale Auctions 2013, Scottsdale, USA | $2'695'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/56958/results](https://glenmarch.com/auction-cars/show-backup-image/56958/results) |
| 2013-01-18 | RM Sotheby's · Arizona, Phoenix, USA · incl. buyer's premium | Road | RM Sotheby's | Arizona, Phoenix, USA | $1'320'000 | USD | incl. buyer's premium | [https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/az13/arizona/lots/r163-1931-duesenberg-model-j-tourster-by-derham/293395](https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/az13/arizona/lots/r163-1931-duesenberg-model-j-tourster-by-derham/293395) |
| 2011-08-18 | bonhams · Carmel, Quail Lodge & Golf Club · hammer | Road | bonhams | Carmel, Quail Lodge & Golf Club | $400'000 | USD | hammer | [https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/19363/lot/420/formerly-the-property-of-reverend-major-jealous-father-divine-aka-the-messenger-the-penultimate-duesenberg-chassis-and-engine-and-the-largest-example-ever-built1937-duesenberg-model-j-throne-car-limousine-landaulet-chassis-no-2613-engine-no-j-587/](https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/19363/lot/420/formerly-the-property-of-reverend-major-jealous-father-divine-aka-the-messenger-the-penultimate-duesenberg-chassis-and-engine-and-the-largest-example-ever-built1937-duesenberg-model-j-throne-car-limousine-landaulet-chassis-no-2613-engine-no-j-587/) |
| 2009-08-14 | bonhams · Carmel, Quail Lodge & Golf Club · hammer | Road | bonhams | Carmel, Quail Lodge & Golf Club | $1'300'000 | USD | hammer | [https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/17327/lot/223/the-ex-william-boyd-hopalong-cassidy-unique-coachwork1933-duesenberg-model-j-torpedo-convertible-victoria-chassis-no-2535-engine-no-j384/](https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/17327/lot/223/the-ex-william-boyd-hopalong-cassidy-unique-coachwork1933-duesenberg-model-j-torpedo-convertible-victoria-chassis-no-2535-engine-no-j384/) |
| 2004-08-13 | 1267 | Road | bonhams | Carmel, Quail Lodge & Golf Club | $100 | USD | hammer | [https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/13027/lot/1267/a-1965-reprint-of-th-1929-duesenberg-model-j-chassis-blue-print/](https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/13027/lot/1267/a-1965-reprint-of-th-1929-duesenberg-model-j-chassis-blue-print/) |
| 2003-05-03 | bonhams · San Francisco · hammer | Road | bonhams | San Francisco | $62'000 | USD | hammer | [https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/12916/lot/431/1931-duesenberg-model-j-no-j253/](https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/12916/lot/431/1931-duesenberg-model-j-no-j253/) |
| 2003-05-03 | bonhams · San Francisco · hammer | Road | bonhams | San Francisco | $67'000 | USD | hammer | [https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/12916/lot/432/1931-duesenberg-model-j-no-j297/](https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/12916/lot/432/1931-duesenberg-model-j-no-j297/) |

Published auction totals are recorded as stated by each house. Price semantics were not added where the house page did not state whether buyer's premium was included.

## A racing engineer given an unrestricted brief

E.L. Cord acquired Duesenberg in 1926 and directed Fred Duesenberg to build a car beyond the established American luxury field. The Model J appeared at the New York salon in December 1928 with its engine and chassis doing the selling; the finished body still belonged to the buyer's chosen coachbuilder.

The stock-market crash arrived before the car's first full production year. Duesenberg continued supplying chassis through the 1930s while Murphy, Derham, LeBaron, Rollston, LaGrande and European houses produced open and closed bodies in small runs or as single commissions.

The company dissolved in 1937, but unbodied chassis and later completions make the end date less tidy than the corporate record. For collectors, the durable identity is the combination of chassis, engine, firewall and coachwork, supported by period records and subsequent ownership.

| Highlight | Detail |
| --- | --- |
| The body was a separate purchase | The $8'500 factory price bought a running chassis with grille, hood, cowl and dashboard. A coachbuilder then made the finished car; documented period totals ran roughly $14'000 to $20'000. |
| Thirty-two valves in 1928 | The 6.9-litre straight-eight used twin overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder. Duesenberg rated the standard Model J at 265 bhp, transmitted through only three forward ratios. |
| The dashboard scheduled the work | Indicator lamps called for battery water, an oil change every 750 miles and attention to the automatic chassis lubricator. The panel also carried a tachometer, chronometer and brake-pressure gauge. |
| The production count is not clean | About 481 Model J-family cars is the common published figure. Other accounts separate roughly 470 chassis from 480 engines, and late bodies and re-bodied cars blur what constitutes one completed Duesenberg. |

| Label | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Built | 481 |
| Power | 265 bhp |
| Body | Coachbuilt to order |
| Debut | December 1928 |
| Assembly | Indianapolis |

## Technical specifications

### Powertrain

| Label | Value | Note |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Engine | 420 cu in / 6'882 cc inline-eight | water-cooled, naturally aspirated in standard J form |
| Valve gear | Twin overhead camshafts, 32 valves | four valves per cylinder |
| Power | 265 bhp at 4'200 rpm | factory rating |
| Carburetion | Single updraft carburettor | Schebler on documented early examples |
| Gearbox | 3-speed manual | two-plate clutch and torque-tube drive |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive |  |

### Chassis

| Label | Value | Note |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Frame | Ladder chassis | supplied with engine, grille, hood, cowl and dashboard |
| Wheelbase | 142.5 or 153.5 in | 3'620 or 3'899 mm |
| Front suspension | Solid axle, semi-elliptic leaf springs |  |
| Rear suspension | Live axle, semi-elliptic leaf springs |  |
| Brakes | Four-wheel hydraulic drums | vacuum-assisted on documented examples |
| Coachwork | Independent body to customer order | Murphy, Derham, LeBaron, Rollston, LaGrande and others |

### Performance and instruments

| Label | Value | Note |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Top speed | 116 mph / 187 km/h | period figure; body and axle ratio matter |
| Second gear | up to 90 mph | period figure |
| Dashboard | Tachometer, chronometer and brake-pressure gauge |  |
| Service warnings | Battery, oil-change and chassis-lubricator lamps | oil reminder every 750 miles |

### Model J register

42 documented · public records only. Private, unpublished and member-only chassis files are omitted.

| Year | Chassis | Colour | Provenance | Last public sale | File |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1930 | 2380 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2022-08-20. | $1'061'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2022-08 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2380) |
| 1932 | J546 |  | Published auction record from Mecum, 2019-03-17. | $880'000 · Mecum · 2019-03 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=J546) |
| 1932 | 2841 |  | Published auction record from Bonhams, 2023-08-18. | $1'127'000 · Bonhams · 2023-08 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2841) |
| 1935 | 2548 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2017-10-06. | $1'485'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2017-10 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2548) |
| 1929 | 2168 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2024-08-17. | $1'875'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2024-08 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2168) |
| 1930 | 2323 |  | Published auction record from Gooding Christie's, 2023-08-19. | $2'975'000 · Gooding Christie's · 2023-08 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2323) |
| 1930 | 2345 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2019-05-05. | $1'105'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2019-05 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2345) |
| 1931 | 2440 |  | 2 published auction records from RM Sotheby's, 2013-01-18 to 2023-08-19. | $1'710'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2023-08 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2440) |
| 1929 | 2245 |  | Published auction record from Mecum, 2021-08-14. | $2'365'000 · Mecum · 2021-08 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2245) |
| 1933 | J386 |  | Published auction record from Mecum, 2018-08-25. | $3'850'000 · Mecum · 2018-08 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=J386) |
| 1929 | 2210 |  | Published auction record from Mecum, 2026-01-18. | $1'017'500 · Mecum · 2026-01 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2210) |
| 0 | 2579 |  | Published auction record from Bonhams, 2019-08-16. | $478'000 · Bonhams · 2019-08 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2579) |
| 1930 | 2336 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2019-03-09. | $1'650'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2019-03 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2336) |
| 1931 | 2438 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2019-10-11. | $451'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2019-10 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2438) |
| 1932 | 2505 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2020-03-07. | $1'325'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2020-03 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2505) |
| 1932 | 2481 |  | Published auction record from Mecum, 2025-08-16. | $1'320'000 · Mecum · 2025-08 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2481) |
| 1935 | 2576 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2022-08-20. | $4'680'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2022-08 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2576) |
| 1930 | J237 |  | Published auction record from Barrett-Jackson, 2017-01-22. | $880'000 · Barrett-Jackson · 2017-01 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=J237) |
| 1930 | J4022407 |  | Published auction record from Mecum, 2018-11-17. | $770'000 · Mecum · 2018-11 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=J4022407) |
| 1929 | 2143 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2018-09-02. | $737'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2018-09 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2143) |
| 1935 | 2583 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2025-08-16. | $4'405'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2025-08 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2583) |
| 1931 | 2410 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2021-10-08. | $1'650'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2021-10 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2410) |
| 1930 | 2276 |  | 2 published auction records from Mecum, 2013-08-17 to 2019-01-13. | $935'000 · Mecum · 2019-01 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2276) |
| 1932 | J490X |  | Published auction record from Mecum, 2020-01-12. | $522'500 · Mecum · 2020-01 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=J490X) |
| 1935 | 2558 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2021-08-14. | $3'125'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2021-08 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2558) |
| 1930 | 2369 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2024-03-02. | $3'855'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2024-03 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2369) |
| 1931 | 2464 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2022-01-27. | $3'415'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2022-01 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2464) |
| 1929 | 2199 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2021-05-22. | $5'725'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2021-05 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2199) |
| 1936 | 2599 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2020-09-05. | $632'500 · RM Sotheby's · 2020-09 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2599) |
| 1930 | J391 |  | Published auction record from Mecum, 2014-08-16. | $1'425'000 · Mecum · 2014-08 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=J391) |
| 1930 | 2167 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2020-03-07. | $1'132'500 · RM Sotheby's · 2020-03 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2167) |
| 1936 | J586 |  | Published auction record from Mecum, 2022-08-20. | $2'695'000 · Mecum · 2022-08 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=J586) |
| 1929 | 2169 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2021-08-14. | $3'305'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2021-08 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2169) |
| 1930 | 2388 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2014-01-17. | $2'200'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2014-01 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2388) |
| 1934 | 2489 |  | Published auction record from Barrett-Jackson, 2013-01-20. | $1'430'000 · Barrett-Jackson · 2013-01 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2489) |
| 1931 | 2456 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2013-03-09. | $825'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2013-03 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2456) |
| 1930 | 2294 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2022-03-05. | $3'525'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2022-03 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2294) |
| 1929 | J262 |  | Published auction record from Mecum, 2018-08-25. | $1'155'000 · Mecum · 2018-08 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=J262) |
| 1930 | 2377 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2023-03-04. | $1'490'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2023-03 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2377) |
| 1931 | 2414 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2023-03-04. | $4'295'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2023-03 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2414) |
| 1929 | 2165 |  | Published auction record from Mecum, 2022-03-19. | $2'365'000 · Mecum · 2022-03 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2165) |
| 1929 | 2132 |  | Published auction record from RM Sotheby's, 2022-08-20. | $1'710'000 · RM Sotheby's · 2022-08 | [Chassis file](https://hiconium.dev/vehicles/duesenberg/model-j?file=2132) |

## The people behind the car

### [Fred Duesenberg](https://hiconium.dev/people/fred-duesenberg)

Chief engineer · Duesenberg

![Portrait of Fred Duesenberg](https://hiconium.dev/images/cars/duesenberg-model-j/people/fred-duesenberg.jpg)

Led the engineering programme that put a 420-cubic-inch, twin-cam, 32-valve straight-eight into the Model J chassis.

### [E.L. Cord](https://hiconium.dev/people/el-cord)

Owner and programme sponsor · Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg

Acquired control of Duesenberg in 1926 and set the commercial brief for a car above the existing American luxury market.

### [Gordon M. Buehrig](https://hiconium.dev/people/gordon-m-buehrig)

Staff designer · Duesenberg

Drew factory-associated Model J bodies including the Derham Tourster and Torpedo Phaeton designs.

## Member instruments

A HICON Bid is a confidential expression of buying interest on this file. It is not a binding purchase, and HICONIUM holds no funds. [Sign in](https://hiconium.dev/sign-in) to place one. Garage files for an owned chassis are member records and are not listed here. [How membership works](https://hiconium.dev/membership).