Bumper weather stripping

[G.Lucas]

Can someone tell me what the purpose of the weather stripping behind the center rear bumper on a 1955 is for.Is it to keep the dust down?Me is shot.I dont see the sence in replacing it.G.Lucas.

[Paul W Allen CLC #20193]

Its to keep water and mud from curling up the inside of the rear bumper and spraying all over the rear of the car. I just replaced mine on my 53. Its Masticated Rubber (spelling?). I got it from Steele. They sell it by the square foot.

Paul
53 Coupe
Twin Turbine