A barn might not seem like a logical place to find valuable antique cars. However, surprisingly, many people have found rare and valuable “barn finds” in a variety of locations, from a rental unit to a junkyard. Why collector cars often end up in such places is a mystery, but there is no denying that many of these vehicles have unique stories to tell.

5 Popular “Barn Finds”

1. Shelby^® Daytona Coupe

Only six Shelby Daytona Coupes were ever produced, making it one of the rarest vehicles in existence. Model CSX2287 disappeared for decades until the death of its owner. After Donna O’Hara’s passed away, the antique car was found in her rented storage unit and was estimated to be worth over $4 million.

2. Ferrari^® 166 MM Barchetta

Though not in a barn, this rare vehicle sat in the Arizona desert for years until the death of its owner. The vehicle was then sold at auction for $1.87 million. During its years of inactivity, it was only covered by rugs for a few years, so it was left with worn paint.

3. Ferrari 250 GTO

Believe it or not, a Ferrari 250 GTO was left to sit in an Ohio field for 14 years in the 1970s and 1980s. This former racing vehicle was eventually sold to a collector from Switzerland who went on to restore it.

4. Ferrari Dino 246 GTS

In 1978, a Dino 246 GTS was discovered buried in a Los Angeles backyard. The sports car had been stolen a few years earlier as part of an insurance scam. Fortunately, its new owner was able to restore it to its former beauty.

5. 1935 Mercedes-Benz^® 500K

Another Los Angeles find, this antique car, which had been driven by racing driver Rudolf Caracciola, was found in a junkyard, alongside several other collectible automobiles. The vehicle’s value is estimated at over $10 million.

You don’t have to go digging around in a barn or junkyard to find a classic vehicle. If you enjoy rare, antique cars, then you’ll love the Charlotte AutoFair in North Carolina. With thousands of cars on display, this 150-acre venue provides a great opportunity to admire—or even purchase—beautiful collector’s vehicles. To learn more about this vintage car show, visit them online or call (704) 841-1990 today.