The Legendary One-Owner “Snake Charmer” Cobra of Hank Williams, a Historic Automotive Icon Now Offered for the First Time in Monterey

Hank Williams, a decorated African American WWII hero, musician, and racing driver, secured one of three Princess Blue 289 Mk II Cobras in 1964, and it will make its debut at Monterey Car Week 2024 through RM Sotheby’s.

• Nearly 400 races and over 260 trophies and awards are included, with the original engine, body, and chassis.
• Includes original build sheet, warranty card, competition license, and decades of photos.
• Hank Williams earned the “Snake Charmer” nickname and received Carroll Shelby’s Le Mans Team shirt, included with the car.
• Unrestored, single-owner “time capsule” Cobra in “as raced” condition, offered for the first time.
• To view the car, click here.
• For more images, click here.

MONTEREY, CA – July 26, 2024 – (Motor Sports NewsWire) – 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…