Ford definitely knew they had a major hit on their hands leading up to the Mustang’s original launch – even before the World’s Fair opened in Queens, New York City on April 17th of 1964.

This car, serial #5F08F100004 — the 100004 part is the clue to its early-days provenance — was built as one of the very first pilot cars off the line, before March 5th of that same year.

The build dates are a real pride point among Mustang owners of this period – and this 1964 1/2 Convertible was definitely, definitely one of the first ever.

The car’s bio estimates that more than 50,000 show-goers had their bums in these seats, but they must have been mighty gentle: this Mustang is nearly flawless and original inside and out.

On loan in Charlotte for the Mustang 50th Anniversary celebration last week, this car epitomizes early Mustang elegance and desirability.

Being the 1964 NY World’s Fair Magic Skyway Car #1 certainly helps cement its appeal and place in the all-time Mustang hall of fame.

NOTE:  The below photos are set up as a vertical gallery to deliver slide-show functionality.

Once the lightbox window appears for the image, there should be little arrows pointing left and right for the previous or next photo. Believe me, they are gigantic photos and very high-res.

If you love one best, right-click/view image with the lightbox open to see the gigantic photo file. Enjoy!