While the top factory-available trim level for the Citroën DS was indeed the well-appointed Pallas, named after Greek goddess Pallas Athena, coachbuilder Henri Chapron offered the elite Prestige option, listed in the official Citroën model catalogue. Worthy of heads of state and the wealthiest personalities, the Chapron-upgraded DS was available from 1958 through the end of DS production in 1974. Offering unparalleled personalization while most French coachbuilders had already ceased operation, Chapron’s Prestige program allowed customers the ability to choose their own trim level from a wide range of options, including division windows and upholstery. Most were painted black. Only an approximate 450 Citroën DS Prestiges were built, of which very few, perhaps fewer than 100, are believed to remain in existence today.

Featuring the ultimate 2.3-liter, fuel-injected engine specification and semiautomatic four-speed gearbox, this 1973 Citroën DS23 Prestige is a compelling example of these exceedingly rare and highly equipped vehicles. Based on the already well-appointed Pallas trim level, this Henri Chapron-upgraded DS23 Prestige was taken to a higher level with a central division window and rich wooden rear panel housing numerous control switches, a writing desk, humidor, and glassware. The Prestige is finished in dramatic black, characteristic of these custom vehicles, with tan leather upholstery and beige carpeting. Purchased by the Mullin Collection from the Netherlands in 2015, this richly appointed 1973 Citroën DS23 Prestige demonstrates the basic flexibility of the DS series and the lengths its maker went to cultivate the elite-level automobile market in Europe.

*Please note that all of the Lots in this Auction have been in long-term static storage at the Mullin Automotive Museum and may not be currently operational. They will require mechanical attention and in some cases significant restoration prior to any road use.