I need help deciding if I should change a 1958 Grille from Silver to Gold

[johnregrus]

I'm currently restoring a 1958 Cadillac series 62 Coblat Blue with a White Top.
I'm sending the grille away to be re anodized to show standards. The car came with a silver grille from the factory.

My questions are:
1. If a car in 1958 had been ordered with the option of a gold grille would that option be shown on the data plate?
2. At a local CLC show level would I be penalized much for having a gold grille in judging?
3. Do you think a gold grille would jump out more than a silver one on the car? Where I come from I've never seen in person a 1958 with the gold option.
I can only afford to do this once so I am struggling with making a decision.
Your input would be appreciated. Thanks!

[Dan LeBlanc]

The gold anodized option was a $27 option in 1958 that could likely be dealer installed.  I would assume there would be no penalty for dealer installed accessories in judging.

Here's a photo from a google image search.

[Walter Youshock]

1:  Yes
2:  No
3:  Yes, but you'll have the only Series 62 with the gold grille.  Cobalt blue and the gold go very nicely and it would complement the car.  With some colors, it's a total distraction.  If you do go for the gold, the tone will be important.  It's supposed to be a satiny finish applied over an extruded aluminum, not on a highly polished aluminum.  I was told all the original anodizing has to be removed prior to refinishing and the delicate extruded lines basically disappear.

Are you sending it to Mack's in PA? 

[JConk58]

I went through this with my 58 convertible. Someone had painted mine gold. Whether or not it was gold originally I don't know. You could get it either way and it would be correct for your car. I ultimately went with silver and I'm glad I did. My car is black. I've seen both plenty of times. Gold is typically on an Eldo. I like the silver better but it's just my opinion. I just got
my restored grille back. I love it.

Good luck on your choice.