When did GM first introduce the COPO option ?

[Verne_Frantz]

The COPO orders all went through the Fleet and Special Order Dept. The exact difference between a F&SO order and a COPO order is vague. I've documented a 1958 Chevy which was a COPO. Yes, stamped on the cowl tag with the order number. Also, a '63 4-dr Biscayne, stamped likewise, which I believe was an FBI car. (and a few others from the early '60s)

I know on this site "COPO" means something really special, but historically, those type of orders went way back. "COPO" did not always mean "Supercar" - it was simply an order that had to go through the Central Office due to specific changes from regular production. It's been around a long time.