Princess Diana's Ford Escort emerges after 20 years, will be auctioned
The compact car has been secretly owned by an admirer of the Princess of Wales
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The people's princess drove a car of the people.
Princess Diana's 1981 Ford Escort hasn't been seen in public in over 20 years (Reeman Dansie)
A 1981 Ford Escort originally owned by Princess Diana has surfaced after more than 20 years out of the public eye and will be auctioned later this month.
(Reeman Dansie’)
The silver four-door hatchback was an engagement present from Prince Charles and driven by Diana until August 1982, just after their first wedding anniversary.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}She was frequently photographed in it, often with her bodyguard in the passenger seat.
Diana Driving her car to a school visit with police bodyguard Graham Smith. (Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images)
According to Reeman Dansie Auctioneers and Valuers it has been owned by a fan of the princesses who kept its history a secret, even from friends.
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{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The car was worth roughly $18,000 in today's dollars when new and remains in its original condition with 83,000 miles on the odometer. Well, almost original. The car features a replica of the frog hood ornament it had when Diana owned it that was a gift from her sister, apparently as a reference to the Princess and the Frog fairy tale.
(Anwar Hussein/Getty Images)
Reeman Dansie estimates it will sell for $40,000 to $55,000 at its Royalty, Antiques and Fine Art Sale in Essex on June 29.