Vintage lion car mascot for Franklin Automobiles. The Franklin Automobile Company was an American car manufacturer from 1902-1934, they were known for their luxury automobiles with air-cooled engines. So their cars didn't have a radiator. So there was no need for a radiator cap on these cars and the mascots were just ornaments. This mascot was designed in 1924 by the Russian- American sculptor Gleb Derujinsky. It is a lion standing on his back feet. The Franklin Lion mascot for sale here is not an original from the 1920's, it was probably made in the 1950's or 60's. The mascot is made of chrome-plated steel. The chrome-plating is in a reasonable condition, there is some wear visible. The base of the mascot has the Latin inscription "Aura Vincit", which means "Air Conquers" for their air-cooled engines. The Franklin Lion is installed on a white stone base. Please take a good look at the photos for a good impression of this beautiful mascot. This car mascot will be send carefully wrapped in bubble-plastic to the winning bidder.