Citroën DS 19 Coupé Ricou Blue 1959 (blister pack)
Scale: 1:43
PLEASE NOTE: the first image is a computer-generated render and may not exactly match the vehicle in this listing, so please check the photos that follow it.
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Get it between Tuesday 17 and Wednesday 18 November
Here is a faithful reproduction of the legendary Citroën DS 19 coupé Ricou blue from 1959, a unique and bold version of the iconic "Goddess". This exceptional miniature captures the essence of one of the most spectacular transformations ever carried out on the DS, offering collectors a rare and fascinating piece.
This miniature is a true collector's item for all enthusiasts of French automobiles and stylistic innovation. It perfectly represents the creative spirit and technical boldness that characterised the French automotive industry of the 1950s.
The Citroën DS 19 coupé Ricou was born in 1959 from the creative imagination of Giovanni Ricou, an Italian coachbuilder based in France. Inspired by the revolutionary lines of the DS saloon launched in 1955, Ricou undertook a radical transformation to create a coupé version of striking elegance. This handcrafted achievement reflects the creative energy that filled the world of automotive coachbuilding in the 1950s.
The Ricou coupé retains all the revolutionary technology of the original DS: hydropneumatic suspension, power steering and power-assisted braking. These innovations, revolutionary for their time, blend harmoniously with the lines redrawn by Ricou. The silhouette is slimmed down, the roofline is lowered, creating a profile of remarkable sportiness that contrasts with the bourgeois elegance of the saloon.
This transformation represents the culmination of the French coachbuilding art, combining traditional craftsmanship with avant-garde technologies. Each example was unique, hand-shaped to the specific wishes of its affluent clientele, making the Ricou coupé a true automotive art object.
In 1959, Citroën went through a period of intense innovation under the leadership of André Citroën and then Pierre Michelin. The chevron brand, buoyed by the resounding success of the DS launched four years earlier, established itself as the technological leader of the European automotive industry. This period marked the peak of French creativity in automobiles, with revolutionary technical solutions that would have a lasting influence on the sector.
The history of Citroën, since its founding in 1919 by André Citroën, is characterised by a constant pursuit of innovation. After revolutionising French car production with the Traction Avant in 1934, the brand confirmed its visionary genius with the DS. This car perfectly embodies the Citroën philosophy: offering bold technical solutions in the service of comfort and safety, even if it meant upsetting the established codes of traditional motoring.
The story of the Ricou coupé begins with a chance encounter between Giovanni Ricou and a wealthy Parisian industrialist, fascinated by his DS but wanting a more exclusive version. Ricou, a former apprentice at Pinin Farina, accepted the challenge of transforming this revolutionary saloon into a grand touring coupé. The project, initially expected to last a few months, stretched to nearly a year as the technical complexity proved considerable.
The transformation required a complete overhaul of the structure, particularly delicate on a DS whose unitary body tolerates no approximation. Ricou developed specific techniques, reinforcing certain areas while lightening others. This craft approach, in which every cut and every weld was made by hand, gives the Ricou coupé a mystique among collectors.
The success of this first creation quickly attracted a prestigious clientele, including several personalities from the cinema and Parisian high society. Each commission became a unique project, with Ricou adapting his creations to the tastes of his affluent clients. This made-to-measure approach explains why no two Ricou coupés are strictly identical, making each example an authentic automotive work of art.
Unfortunately, the handcrafted production of the Ricou coupé abruptly ended in 1962 following the premature death of its creator. This loss instantly turned these creations into exceptional collector's pieces, sought today by enthusiasts around the world for their rarity and timeless beauty.
This Citroën DS 19 coupé Ricou naturally fits at the heart of a collection dedicated to exceptional French automobiles. It pairs perfectly with other models from the Citroën range, notably the traditional Citroën DS and the Citroën 2CV, offering a complete overview of French automotive innovation.
Enthusiasts of French cars and classics from the 1950–1979 period will particularly appreciate this rare piece, which perfectly illustrates the French coachbuilding art. It also fits harmoniously into a themed collection devoted to concept cars and unique creations, reflecting French creativity and automotive craftsmanship.
This miniature is aimed at discerning collectors and automotive history enthusiasts seeking authentic, documented pieces. Its careful finish and rarity make it a prime investment for building a prestige collection representative of the golden age of French automobiles and its visionary creators.
Stephane Bazille
14 November 2026
Always delivered within the agreed deadlines, well-packaged and protected materials. Nothing negative to report. A constantly renewed range that, despite the intention to remain cautious, always finds new temptations...
Claude Lang
13 November 2026
I placed my second order and everything went smoothly, delivery without issues, items in good condition, and delivered on time. After this second order, I can only recommend the site to Bernardminiature, a serious person. Top delivery, thanks again to him and good for a next order.
Serge PINSON
12 November 2026
In addition to the fact that the 1/43 miniatures received are perfectly in line with the photographs and my expectations and are of great finesse, they arrived very quickly (I was even informed of the shipment) and very carefully packaged. Very satisfied, I placed a new order with Bernard Miniatures, a seller I recommend for their selection and reliability.
The scale is the reduction ratio between the real car and the model. At 1:43 scale, for example, every centimetre of the model represents 43 centimetres of the real vehicle.
In practice, a 1:18 Ferrari model is about 25–30 cm long, while at 1:43 it measures roughly 10 cm.
Our model cars mainly come in 1:43, 1:24, 1:18 and 1:87 (HO) scale. The scale is always listed on the product page.
The smaller the second number, the bigger the model (e.g. 1:18 is larger than 1:43).
Yes, every model car ships in its protective box. The box preserves its collector value and protects your model from dust and knocks.
We pack every order with great care: bubble wrap, snug padding and polystyrene. Your model car is fully secured on its way to you.
In-stock items ship within 24–48h. Allow 2–3 business days for mainland France with Colissimo, or 4–5 days with Mondial Relay.
I can't say exactly when new stock will arrive, as it comes in a trickle. Feel free to contact me and I'll let you know as soon as it's available.