Freddie Mercury’s Silver Shadow to star at Coys auction Jan. 12

Freddie Mercury is best known as the lead vocalist and lyricist of the rock band Queen and one of the most flamboyant performers in rock history. He was legendary for his flamboyant stage persona and powerful vocals over a four-octave range. As a songwriter, Mercury composed many hits for Queen, including the legendary Bohemian Rhapsody and We Are the Champions.

The Rolls Royce Silver Shadow was produced in various forms from 1965 to 1980. It was the first Rolls-Royce to use a monocoque chassis, a response to concerns that the company was falling behind in automotive innovation. Aside from a more modern appearance and construction, the Silver Shadow introduced many new features such as disc rather than drum brakes, and independent rear suspension, rather than the outdated live axle design of previous cars.

This special Rolls Royce Silver Shadow bought by Freddie Mercury's company Goose Productions Ltd. in September 1979. A letter in the car's file directly from Jim Beach, the longtime manager of Queen and its individual members, confirms WLX 293M was bought for Freddie's use and continued to be used and owned by the company until his death in November 1991.

The car was then borrowed from the estate by Mercury’s sister and has remained in her care ever since. The car was last used for the premier of the musical We Will Rock You in 2002 and has covered minimal mileage since.

Accompanying the car is a thick history file containing various bills and receipts. Described as being in good to fine and original general condition, this is a rare opportunity to acquire a real piece of rock ’n’ roll history. The car carries an estimate of £9,000-£11,000 ($14,468-$17,682).

To contact Coys phone 0044 (0) 208 614 7888. Visit their website at http://www.coys.co.uk.