Citroën SM Présidentielle Dark Grey (Heads of State Cars Collection) - Royal Visit of Georges Pompidou, 1972
Scale: 1/43
Royal Visit of Georges Pompidou 1972
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.
This miniature of the Citroën SM Presidential captures the essence of an era when the French automobile embodied technological excellence and republican prestige. Reproduced in its official dark grey livery, this exceptional piece reflects the French automotive refinement of the 1970s.
A true symbol of French know-how, this miniature appeals to collectors passionate about automotive history and enthusiasts of presidential vehicles. It naturally finds its place alongside the finest collectible pieces dedicated to state cars.
The Citroën SM was born in 1970 from the desire to create a grand touring car à la française, combining the legendary comfort of Citroën suspensions with the sportiness of a Maserati engine. This exceptional sedan embodies the technical audacity of the brand with the chevron, featuring variable speed-sensitive automatic return steering and a revolutionary hydraulic system.
The vehicle is distinguished by its futuristic lines designed by Robert Opron, its six swiveling headlights, and its spacious cabin designed for long journeys. The presidential version benefits from specific fittings ensuring safety and comfort for the highest personalities of the state.
Despite a critical success and international recognition, the SM remains exclusive with only 12,920 units produced, making it one of the most exclusive Citroëns in the brand's history.
At the beginning of the 1970s, Citroën experienced a period of creative effervescence under the direction of Pierre Bercot. Building on the success of the DS, the French manufacturer aimed to conquer the luxury automotive segment with cutting-edge technologies. The acquisition of Maserati in 1968 paved the way for this high-end strategy.
This era marks the apex of Citroën innovation, where each new model pushes the boundaries of automotive technique. The brand cultivates its image as a pioneer, offering revolutionary solutions that will lastingly influence the global automotive industry. The SM perfectly embodies this corporate philosophy, combining aesthetic daring and technical prowess.
The story of the SM Presidential perfectly illustrates the paradoxes of French automotive politics. Specially commissioned for official travel, this armored and fitted version was meant to embody French technological prestige worldwide. However, its effective use remained limited due to complex protocol considerations.
The most famous anecdote concerns an official visit where the presidential SM, despite its exceptional qualities, was overshadowed by diplomatic considerations. Security services ultimately preferred more conventional vehicles, relegating this technological wonder to the rank of a historical curiosity.
This misadventure symbolizes the gap between French innovation and the constraints of republican protocol. Nevertheless, the SM Presidential remains a unique testament to French automotive ambition, embodying an era when technique prevailed over conventions.
Today, the few surviving examples are of particular interest to collectors, aware they hold a fragment of automotive history with multiple political and technical dimensions.
This SM Presidential naturally fits into collections dedicated to Citroën vehicles, where it harmonizes with other iconic models of the brand. It perfectly integrates into thematic collections dedicated to French automobiles of the 1970s.
Collectors passionate about classic cars will appreciate this exceptional piece that ideally complements collections dedicated to prestigious sedans. This miniature is also aimed at enthusiasts of French political history, attracted by the authenticity of its reproduction at 1/43 scale, the reference scale for this exceptional type of vehicle.
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.
Sold
It was the last one, and we no longer have it in stock. It may come back one day, but I can't promise. In the meantime, here are the closest matches available today.
Brown Citroën GS from 1971 (MISSING REAR-VIEW MIRROR)
20,00 €
Citroën Visa 2 Super E brown 1981 (plexi box)
25,00 €
Citroën Traction 11AL Black 1935 - Auto Plus
25,00 €
Citroën Type H long off-white/beige? from 1954 - La Chaine Paysanne
30,00 €
Citroën Traction 11CV Black - Del Prado
25,00 €
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.