The ZIS 115 with plate number HN 481 (Photo: VNS)

After 55 years of preserving and promoting the value of President Ho Chi Minh's legacy, for the first time, the President Ho Chi Minh Relic Site at the Presidential Palace is honored to have artifacts recognized as a National Treasure.

The first car, a ZIS 115 with licence plate number HN 481, was presented to the President by the Communist Party of the Soviet Union in 1954. This four-seater armored car, painted black and built with bulletproof steel and 8cm-thick glass, weighed over two tonnes. It was produced as a limited edition, mainly intended for heads of state and symbolised the strong friendship between Vietnam and the then Soviet Union.

The Pobeda was registered with plate number HN 158 (Photo: VNS)

The Pobeda, with plate number HN 158, was also a gift from the Soviet Government to Vietnam in 1955. This car was transferred to the Presidential Palace in 1957 and served President Ho Chi Minh until 1969.

The third car, a Peugeot 404 with licence number HNC 232, was donated by overseas Vietnamese in March 1964. This vehicle became indispensable during the later years of President Ho Chi Minh’s life as his health began to decline. Its comfort and reliability made it a practical choice for his transportation needs during this period.

The Peugeot 404 with plate number HNC 232 (Photo: VNS)

According to the managers of the Presidential Palace, the national treasures - three cars - were not only a means of transportation of the President but also a symbolic value of international friendship, solidarity and patriotism of overseas Vietnamese towards the national leader.

The three cars were vivid evidence of a historical period full of hardships, perseverance, determination to gain independence, freedom and unification of the country while conveying profound lessons about President Ho Chi Minh's ideology, morality and lifestyle./.

BTA