Every so often, a car comes along that changes the course of automotive history forever. You know the ones, right? To name a few, we have the ’53 Vette which brought on a new era of sporting automobiles. 1955 brought about the Bel Air. Never before had a car looked so awesome. And of course, in pony car history, 1964 reigns supreme as the Mustang ushers in the era of muscle cars and creating a battle that still ensues to this day.

Photo Credit: Mecum

However, one car destroyed all other cars on the track to include the venerable Corvette. You know this car simply as Shelby Cobra. Even though this beast had a short lived history, it goes down as one of the most transforming cars ever made as it changed the world of racing forever.

Most gear heads recognize the sound when they hear one rolling down the road. It’s a distinct rumble, almost a growl, with its choppy idle and short exhaust pipes.

One thing that a lot of people don’t realize is that there were more 289 cubic inch cars than there were 427s. Of course, when you consider a total population of less than 1,000 – they are all rare.

Photo Credit: Mecum

The upcoming Mecum auction hosted in Indianapolis boasts more than one Shelby Cobra. One of these cars, a 1965 Shelby Cobra 289, has a very interesting history that includes the original dealer not being able to find a buyer for it.

Say what? How is it that nobody wanted one of these cars for about $6K?

After a while with no bites, the car was sold back to Shelby. Poor car. Nobody wanted her. Nowadays, however, even Cobras fitted with the 289 are highly sought after and can command 6 digit prices. And of the less than 1,000 Cobras produced in the 1960s, this one just happens to be a unique find all on her own.

This beauty is one of only 20 289s matted up to a C4 automatic transmission. To push the rarity envelope even further, this is also one of just 43 cars finished in “silver mink.”

Photo Credit: Mecum

When you take into consideration just how few of these cars are left across the country, this car is likely now just one of a kind. How much will she bring in at auction? Only time will tell at this point. But one thing is for certain, only the sky is the limit for this super rare car at one of the biggest auto auctions in the country.

What are your thoughts on this car? Please respond in the comments below.