A 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder recently fetched $16.2 million at auction, surpassing the expected price of $14.74 million. This rare model is highly coveted, with only 37 ever produced, and it has become one of the most expensive classic cars. The Ferrari now holds a place in the list of the highest-selling cars in history, a distinction it shares with several other models from the 250 GT series, which dominate the luxury car auction world.
The Ferrari was part of an extraordinary “barn find” discovered in rural France. This term refers to cars that have been stored away in barns or similar spaces for decades, often remaining untouched. In this case, two specialists from the auction house Artcurial Motorcars stumbled upon a collection of 60 such cars that had been abandoned for over 50 years. These vehicles were stored in makeshift cages and under outbuildings, left to deteriorate in the elements.
The collection was originally owned by Roger Baillon, a French transportation mogul who amassed the cars in the mid-20th century. However, after facing financial difficulties in the 1970s, Baillon was forced to sell much of his collection. Rather than part with all his prized cars, he secretly stashed several in the barn, where they were eventually forgotten. The cars were left to rust, but many still retain an aura of their former grandeur.
Among the collection’s most notable pieces were not only the Ferrari but also a 1956 Maserati A6G Gran Sport Frua, one of only three models ever made. While many of the cars are too far gone for full restoration, their rarity and historical value still make them attractive to collectors. Some, like the Maserati, may be restored to their former glory, but others, such as a Talbot Lago T26 Grand Sport Coupe, may only be valuable for parts or as historical artifacts.
Despite the advanced decay of many vehicles, there is an undeniable charm to the “barn find” cars, with some still displaying the beauty and craftsmanship of their heyday. The discovery of these cars has brought a new wave of excitement to classic car enthusiasts, who now have the opportunity to own a piece of automotive history, even if it requires significant restoration work.