And it is said that King Charles once sent a gifted Aston Martin through a Sotheby’s auction, breaking royal rules. The story goes that in 1969, the Prince of Wales received a brand new Aston Martin DB6 Mark 2 Volante as a 21st birthday present from his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. However, just a few years later, in 1978, the Prince decided to sell the car through a Sotheby’s auction, causing quite a stir in the royal family and among car enthusiasts alike.
The decision to sell the gifted Aston Martin was not only surprising but also controversial, as it went against the traditional etiquette of not selling gifts or assets given to members of the royal family. The news of the auction created a buzz in the media, with many speculating about the reasons behind the Prince’s decision. Some suggested that it was a practical move, considering the high maintenance costs of the luxury car, while others believed it was a statement of independence and rebellion from the Prince.
Regardless of the reasons, the Aston Martin DB6 Mark 2 Volante was eventually sold at the auction for a substantial amount, further fueling the public’s curiosity about the royal family’s finances and the Prince’s motivations. The car’s new owner was an American businessman, who reportedly paid over £90,000 for the iconic vehicle.
The controversy surrounding the auction of the Aston Martin DB6 Mark 2 Volante continued to linger in the public’s memory for years to come, often resurfacing in discussions about the royal family’s adherence to tradition and propriety. The incident was seen as a rare departure from the norms and customs that governed the behavior of the royals, especially when it came to the handling of valuable gifts and possessions.
In retrospect, the auction of the Aston Martin can be seen as a symbol of the changing times and attitudes within the royal family, as well as a sign of the Prince’s desire for independence and self-determination. It marked a departure from the rigid protocols and expectations that had long defined the behavior of the royals, reflecting a shift towards a more modern and individualistic approach.
While the auction of the Aston Martin DB6 Mark 2 Volante may have raised eyebrows and sparked debates, it also highlighted the personal autonomy and freedom of choice that members of the royal family possess. It served as a reminder that even those born into the highest echelons of society are entitled to make their own decisions and carve out their own paths, independent of tradition and expectation.
The story of King Charles sending a gifted Aston Martin through a Sotheby’s auction continues to capture the interest of the public, serving as a reminder of the complex and dynamic nature of the royal family and its members. It is a tale that embodies the tension between tradition and change, duty and individuality, and the ever-evolving role of the royals in the modern world. And while it may have caused a stir at the time, the auction of the Aston Martin DB6 Mark 2 Volante stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the royal family, as well as the enduring fascination with their lives and actions.