Rare 1961 Ferrari 250 GT California Spider to Hit Auction Block

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A 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider, chassis 2955 GT, is scheduled to be auctioned by RM Sotheby's in Monaco in April 2026. This rare model is one of just 56 short-wheelbase California Spiders ever built and has a storied history, including ownership by a Lebanese enthusiast, an American actor, and a Frankfurt-based collector. The car has been recently restored and certified by Ferrari Classiche, making it a highly sought-after offering for Ferrari collectors.

Why it matters

The Ferrari 250 GT California Spider is considered one of the most beautiful and pedigreed Ferraris ever built, combining aesthetic perfection with race-winning performance. As a limited-production model closely related to Ferrari's competition cars, the short-wheelbase version is highly coveted by collectors, with examples rarely coming up for auction. This particular car's history, condition, and certification by Ferrari Classiche make it an exceptionally valuable and desirable offering.

The details

Chassis 2955 GT was completed in September 1961 and was the 26th example built. It was first delivered to a Lebanese enthusiast in Rome, where it was serviced both locally and at the Ferrari factory. The car was later exported to the United States in 1965 and passed through several American owners, including actor Kenneth Mars, who kept it for over 30 years. In 2000, the car returned to Europe and underwent restoration work in Italy before being acquired by its current owner in 2019. A comprehensive restoration was then completed in 2022 by Dino Cognolato in Vigonza, Italy, returning the car to its current Blu Scuro over rosso leather color scheme and adding a factory-style silver hardtop.

• Chassis 2955 GT was completed in September 1961.
• The car was delivered new via Auto Becker in Düsseldorf and displayed at the 1961 Frankfurt Motor Show.
• In 1965, the Ferrari was exported to the United States.
• In 1966, the car was presented at the FCA National Concours in Indianapolis, where it won Best Convertible.
• The car was acquired by actor Kenneth Mars in 1969 and retained for over 30 years.
• In 2000, the Ferrari returned to Europe and underwent restoration work in Italy.
• In 2019, the current owner acquired the car and commissioned a comprehensive restoration, which was completed in 2022.
• The restored car was exhibited at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.

What’s next

The 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider will be offered at RM Sotheby's biennial Monaco Auction, held alongside the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique, on April 24–25, 2026. Prospective bidders must register in advance to participate.