A 1969 Jaguar E-Type with ties to two Hollywood legends is set to cross the auction block this November. The sleek silver 2+2 coupe was purchased new by Academy Award-winning actor Jack Lemmon and later owned by animator and writer Leo Salkin, adding a unique chapter to an already storied model.
Lemmon’s E-Type was originally ordered in silver with a red leather interior, wire wheels, and a wood-rimmed steering wheel. The car was also equipped with air conditioning and an automatic transmission, reflecting a preference for refinement along with performance. After several years, Lemmon sold the car to Salkin, who was known for his work on The 2000 Year Old Man, Lady and the Tramp, and The Addams Family. Salkin held on to the Jaguar for more than two decades before it passed to its current owner.
The E-Type, introduced in 1961, was Jaguar’s breakthrough sports car, combining motorsport engineering with striking design. Its aerodynamic body and semi-monocoque construction drew inspiration from the company’s Le Mans-winning D-Type racers. Under the long hood, Jaguar’s 4.2-liter XK inline-six produced strong performance, propelling the car beyond 150 mph — extraordinary for its era.
By 1969, the E-Type had evolved into the Series II model, offering improved cooling, safety upgrades, and more interior comfort. The 2+2 configuration added practicality, making it a favorite among celebrities seeking both style and usability.
Now, this well-documented example of Lemmon’s ownership joins Julien’s “Movies and Motorcars” auction, carrying an estimated value between $40,000 and $60,000. With its combination of cinematic provenance and timeless design, the car represents more than a collector’s item — it’s a tangible link to Hollywood’s golden age and one of the most admired sports cars ever built.
