The Dollar Is Losing Value—Should California Residents Consider Rare Assets? What the 1991 Isdera Imperator Auction Teaches Us About Wealth Preservation and Estate Planning

If you’re a California resident watching the U.S. dollar drop to four-year lows—down over 3% in recent weeks and more than 10% throughout 2025—you may be wondering: How can I protect my wealth and ensure my family is shielded from economic uncertainty?

The recent auction of a rare 1991 Isdera Imperator 108i Series 2, one of only thirteen ever made, offers an unexpected lesson in asset diversification, wealth preservation, and the importance of strategic estate planning for California families.

Why California Families Are Rethinking Traditional Wealth Storage

With inflation concerns, fluctuating currency values, and unpredictable markets, many California residents are exploring alternative assets—from real estate and collectibles to rare vehicles and art. The Isdera Imperator, valued between $650,000 and $850,000 at RM Sotheby’s Miami auction, represents the kind of tangible, rare asset that some investors view as a hedge against currency devaluation.

But here’s the critical question estate planning attorneys hear every day: What happens to these high-value assets when you pass away?

What Makes the Isdera Imperator Unique?

This particular vehicle is a masterclass in rarity and preservation:

Only 13 examples exist worldwide, making it extraordinarily rare

Just 1,378 miles on the odometer after 35 years

Designed by former Porsche designer Eberhard Schulz, featuring a fighter-jet aesthetic with exposed side-exit exhaust and futuristic wedge design

Mid-engine layout with a 300-horsepower Mercedes-Benz V8 and ZF five-speed manual gearbox

Previously sold at Bonhams’ Monaco sale in 2021 for 690,000 euros

The vehicle has traveled through California (serviced by Canepa), Japan, and Florida, demonstrating international provenance that can complicate estate matters without proper planning.

How Do Rare Assets Like Collector Cars Fit Into Your Estate Plan?

California residents who own or are considering high-value collectibles face unique estate planning challenges:

Valuation complexity: Rare assets can fluctuate dramatically in value, making estate tax planning critical

Interstate and international complications: Assets that have crossed state or national borders require specialized legal handling

Family disputes: Without clear directives, heirs may disagree about whether to keep, sell, or divide unique assets

Probate exposure: High-value assets without proper trust protection can get tied up in California probate court for months or years

Tax implications: Federal estate taxes and California-specific regulations can significantly impact what your heirs actually receive

Real-World Scenario: What Happens Without Proper Planning?

Imagine you’re a California resident who purchases a rare collector car like the Isdera Imperator. You pass away without a comprehensive estate plan. Here’s what could happen:

Your estate enters California probate, which typically takes 12-18 months and costs 4-6% of the estate value

The rare vehicle sits in storage, potentially depreciating or requiring maintenance your heirs can’t coordinate

Family members disagree about whether to sell at auction or keep the asset

Without clear documentation of the vehicle’s provenance and service history, its value may be disputed

Estate taxes consume a significant portion of the asset’s value

How California Probate and Trust, PC Protects Your Legacy

At California Probate and Trust, PC, we specialize in protecting California residents and their families from exactly these scenarios. Our approach includes:

Revocable Living Trusts: Keep high-value assets out of probate entirely, ensuring faster transfer to heirs

Asset-specific planning: Create detailed instructions for unique assets like collector vehicles, real estate, and investments

Tax optimization strategies: Minimize estate tax exposure while maximizing what your family receives

Family protection protocols: Establish clear guidelines to prevent disputes among heirs

Comprehensive financial management: Coordinate with financial advisors to ensure your entire wealth picture is protected

Common Questions California Residents Ask About Estate Planning for High-Value Assets

Q: How can I protect collector items from probate in California?

A: By establishing a properly funded revocable living trust and ensuring all titled assets are transferred into the trust. This keeps them out of the public probate process.

Q: What if my assets have appreciated significantly since I purchased them?

A: Regular estate plan updates are essential. We recommend reviewing your plan every 3-5 years or after any major life change or significant asset acquisition.

Q: Can estate planning really save my family money?

A: Yes. California probate typically costs 4-6% of estate value, while comprehensive trust-based planning costs a fraction of that amount upfront and eliminates probate entirely.

Take Action to Protect Your Family’s Future

Whether you own rare collectibles, California real estate, or traditional investments, the message is clear: Proper estate planning is the most reliable way to protect your wealth and your family from uncertainty.

The Isdera Imperator story reminds us that valuable assets require intentional protection. Don’t leave your family’s financial security to chance or the California probate system.

Schedule Your Free Estate Planning Consultation Today

California Probate and Trust, PC offers free, no-obligation consultations to California residents who want to:

Understand their current estate planning gaps

Protect high-value or unique assets

Minimize probate exposure and estate taxes

Create clear, transparent plans that protect their families

Contact us today:

Phone: (866)-674-1130

Website: cpt.law

Offices: Fair Oaks, Sacramento, and San Francisco

We’ve helped thousands of California families protect their legacies. Let us help you too.

Source: Jalopnik – 1991 Isdera Imperator 108i Series 2 for Sale

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information presented is based on a news article about a rare vehicle auction and general estate planning principles. Estate planning needs vary significantly based on individual circumstances, asset types, family dynamics, and California law. Nothing in this article should be construed as financial advice or a recommendation to purchase or sell any particular asset. For specific legal guidance tailored to your situation, please schedule a consultation with a qualified California estate planning attorney. California Probate and Trust, PC is available to discuss your unique needs and develop a comprehensive plan that protects your family and assets. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.