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Hidden Treasure: 60 Classic Cars Found on French Farm!
20 Oct
Summary
- A collection of 60 classic cars sold for over €16 million.
- A 1961 Ferrari once owned by Alain Delon was among the finds.
- Cars were discovered on a farm in western France after decades.
- The collection included rare models from Bugatti, Maserati, and more.
In a sensational discovery on a farm in western France, an extensive collection of around 60 classic cars, concealed from public view for decades, was brought to auction. The find, revealed in 2014 to Artcurial auctioneers, captivated automotive enthusiasts and fetched a hammer price of €16.288 million in February 2015. Many vehicles, including rare models from Bugatti, Hispano-Suiza, and Maserati, were found in a state of disrepair, some affected by rust and vegetation.
Among the prestigious vehicles unearthed was a highly sought-after 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider. This particular Ferrari boasts a notable provenance, having been previously owned by the iconic French actor Alain Delon. Its rarity, with only 37 of its kind featuring covered headlights, made it a prime target for collectors worldwide.
The Baillon family collection, started by Roger Baillon in the 1950s, included other significant automobiles. Among them was King Farouk of Egypt's Talbot-Lago T26 Cabriolet, adding a royal connection to the already impressive find. The auction presented a unique opportunity for collectors to acquire automotive treasures that had been out of the market for many years, sold in the exact condition they were discovered.
