1964 Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale

Ferrari built just three of the 275 GTB/C Speciales, each with lightweight aluminium bodywork and a 316bhp 3.2-litre V12 engine. As the first Ferrari with an independent rear suspension and a transaxle gearbox, it was a major improvement over the outgoing 250-series and an evolution of the front-engined 250 GTO. Completed in April 1965, chassis 06701 was the first of the three 275 GTB/C Speciales built. It was hand built in all respects, as were the two cars that followed.

Chassis 06701 brought $28.4m at RM Sotheby's in 2014. Only chassis 06885 would see competitive action. Although its racing career was brief, 06885 quickly proved the potency of the Speciales, finishing third overall at the 1965 24 Hours of Le Mans, a record that has stood ever since as the best finish by a front-engined car.

One of the most coveted cars in the world lost its owner when millionaire Preston Henn, a South Florida flea-market magnate, died at age 86. His 1964 Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale may well be one of the world’s most valuable cars, provided it finds its way to the auction block.

With six carburetors, the car produced 330 horsepower.

A very few of these machines were built for racing and stamped with a 'C' for 'Competizione' — and 'Speciale'. The 'special' 275 GTBs had thinner body panels, a diet that trimmed 300 pounds in all.

Whether the car finds its way to auction is unknown. Henn is survived by his wife of more than 60 years, Betty, and four children. Before passing, he said he made sure his beloved Ferrari will stay on display long after he is gone. 'That was his crown jewel, at one point he said he wanted to be buried in it.'