Chassis No. 110 031098

Revered and respected for its workmanlike mechanicals - a two-cylinder 479cc power plant mated to a four-speed manual transmission-the Jolly, first on the scene in 1958, was greatly admired for its fun open-air body. Carrozzeria Ghia gifted the world with Jolly coachwork that, more than 60 years later, remains a smile-inducing experience by all who see it. This particular 1959 US market example, instantly recognizable by its unique headlights positioned atop the fenders, comes with a well-documented history that, prior to the current seller who acquired the car in the spring of 2021, remained in one family for three generations spanning more than 60 years. In fact, this Jolly is selling after having been in the care of just three families, total, since it was built.

The story is told by the second owner, who acquired the Jolly less than a year into its life, that the original purchaser initially planned for it to be stored on his new yacht; however, it was slightly too big for the ship's stow. Once smitten with a Jolly's diminutive silhouette while on a family European holiday, this car spent the next 60 years of its life on the family's Virginia residence, being looked after by grandfather, son, and grandson before ownership by the current caretaker as the preferred mode of transport at their family vacation home.

This Jolly began a nearly two-year process of restoration beginning in March 2006, by long-time established Fiat specialists Abacus Racing in Virginia Beach. Work included an overhaul of the engine and transmission, replacement of the floor pans, and the application of new Coral paint, all while taking care to preserve its original componentry. Upon taking possession, the current owner chose to have new wicker woven on the seating surfaces to bring the seats up to the level of the rest of the restoration.

Any genuine Jolly is a rare and most rewarding ownership opportunity, and this US market example is even more unique with known ownership history and documents expressing a life well lived. Selling without reserve, this Ghia-bodied charmer is destined to bring joy as it continues to write new chapters in its well-documented history.