RM Sotheby’s is thrilled to announce the offering of the legendary 1964 Hank Williams “Snake Charmer” Cobra, a historic icon celebrated by a community of West Coast SCCA racers and revered by Shelby enthusiasts worldwide. This one-owner Cobra, being offered for the first time, presents an unrepeatable opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
A Man and His Car
In 1965, Henry “Hank” Williams, a multifaceted individual renowned for his WWII heroism, medical career, and jazz music prowess, sought to upgrade his sports car—a modest Austin-Healey. Facing discrimination at a Chevrolet dealership due to his race during the Civil Rights era, Hank turned instead to Norman Ford in Pomona, California. There, he encountered a Shelby 289 Cobra, chassis number CSX 2227, finished in Princess Blue—a fortuitous find.
Despite initial hurdles, Hank persisted with his signed sales agreement and ultimately secured this Cobra. This marked the beginning of an exclusive bond; for six decades, Hank cherished and maintained the Cobra, ensuring no one else would possess or even drive it.
Their story underscores the intersection of fate and determination, showcasing how chance encounters can lead to extraordinary tales surpassing fiction.
The “Snake Charmer” Cobra
Still held in the Hank Williams Trust with the original 1965 title in Hank’s name, it remains a testament to its nearly 60-year history. Retaining its numbers-matching body and engine, the car has never been restored, only meticulously maintained, preserving its fabulous patina and authenticity. Well-known and beloved within California sports car and national SAAC circles, it stands as one of the most historically potent and evocative 289 Cobras—a genuine legend.
Adorned in its original Silver Mink repaint and red Naugahyde interior, bearing the scars of its racing days, it comes with a rich collection of artifacts: an extensive history file including the original build sheet, Buyer Form, and Cobra New Car Warranty; a 1968 pink slip; an original Cobra brochure; and over 260 trophies. Hank’s racing jacket, adorned with period Cobra and racing patches, and the shirt he charmed off Carroll Shelby, further enrich its story.
Following Williams’ passing, it was showcased at the Petersen Museum in Los Angeles, underscoring its significance in automotive lore. Recently, during a photography session at the Petersen Museum, the first since Hank drove it home in 1965, someone other than Hank himself piloted the “Snake Charmer.” As it seeks a new owner, this Cobra offers a chance to continue and experience firsthand the enduring legacy of a lifelong passion between man and machine.
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