Blue-Chip Classics and Hypercar Icons: Previewing the Multi-Million Euro RM Sotheby’s Monaco Auction (May 20–21, 2026)
May 20 @ 4:00 am - May 21 @ 4:00 am
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The elite world of high-stakes automotive collecting returns to the Mediterranean for the RM Sotheby’s Monaco auction, scheduled for May 20–21, 2026.
Taking place at the prestigious Grimaldi Forum Monaco, this biennial event coincides with the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique, drawing the most sophisticated collectors and enthusiasts to the heart of the Principality.
As a cornerstone of the European auction calendar, this sale offers an unparalleled selection of blue-chip automobiles against the backdrop of the world’s most famous street circuit.
The Grimaldi Forum Monaco provides a stunning modern venue for an inventory that typically spans the spectrum of automotive history, from pre-war titans to modern hypercars.
HEADLINE LOT: 1961 FERRARI 250 GT SWB CALIFORNIA SPIDER
The crown jewel of the Monaco auction is undoubtedly the 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider by Scaglietti, carrying an estimate of €14,500,000 – €16,500,000 EUR. As the 26th of only 56 short-wheelbase examples ever built, this car is one of just 39 originally configured with highly desirable covered headlamps.
This specific chassis holds significant historical weight, having served as the official Ferrari show car at the 1961 IAA Frankfurt Motor Show. Its pedigree is further solidified by a 2019 Ferrari Classiche “Red Book” certification, confirming the presence of its matching-numbers engine, gearbox, rear axle, and coachwork.
Expect to see an emphasis on legendary racing pedigree, particularly Formula 1 icons and sports racing prototypes that mirror the spirit of the Monaco racing season.
Beyond the auction block, the event features exclusive VIP cocktail receptions, private preview days for registered bidders, and the electric atmosphere of the Grand Prix weekend.
RM SOTHEBY’S MONACO: BIANNUAL GRAND PRIX SALE – MAY 20-21, 2026.
Historically, this location has set the stage for monumental results; at the previous 2024 iteration, a remarkable 82% sell-through rate was achieved, totaling over €52 million in sales. This year, collectors are focused on ‘The Monaco Auction,’ where a curated selection of history-making machinery is set to go under the hammer.
EVENT SCHEDULE & LOGISTICS
- AUCTION DATES: Wednesday, May 20 – Thursday, May 21, 2026
- PREVIEW TIMES: Gates open daily at 10:00 AM
- AUCTION START: Auction sessions begin at 6:00 PM
ADMISSION & BIDDING INFORMATION
- Standard Admission: €100 (Provides access to the preview and auction floor).
- Bidder Registration: €300 (Includes the official auction catalog and admission for the bidder and one guest).
- Venue Address: 10 Av. Princesse Grace, 98000 Monaco
- Map Link: Google Maps – Grimaldi Forum
PRE-SALE HIGHLIGHTS: FIVE EXCLUSIVE LOTS
The 2026 Monaco lineup showcases an extraordinary array of vehicles with immense rarity and racing provenance. Key highlights include:
The elite world of high-stakes automotive collecting returns to the Mediterranean for the RM Sotheby’s Monaco auction, scheduled for April 25, 2026.
Taking place at the prestigious Grimaldi Forum Monaco, this biennial event coincides with the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique (April 24–26), drawing the most sophisticated collectors to the heart of the Principality.
As a cornerstone of the European auction calendar, this sale offers an unparalleled selection of blue-chip automobiles against the backdrop of the world’s most famous street circuit.
The Grimaldi Forum Monaco provides a stunning modern venue for an inventory that spans the spectrum of automotive history, from pre-war titans to modern hypercars.
Expect to see an emphasis on legendary racing pedigree, particularly Formula 1 icons and sports racing prototypes that mirror the spirit of the Monaco racing season.
Historically, this location has set the stage for monumental results, including the 2024 sale, which totaled over €52 million and saw a Ferrari 312 T4 reach a record €7.6 million.
RM SOTHEBY’S MONACO: THE GRAND PRIX HISTORIQUE SALE – APRIL 25, 2026.
Titled ‘The Monaco Auction,’ this exclusive sale serves as a primary indicator of the health of the high-end collector market. Collectors from across the globe will gather to bid on a curated selection of world-class vehicles in one of the most exclusive settings in the world.
EVENT SCHEDULE & LOGISTICS
- AUCTION DAY: Saturday – April 25, 2026
- PREVIEW HOURS: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- AUCTION START: Main session begins at 6:00 PM GMT
ADMISSION & BIDDING INFORMATION
- Standard Admission: €100 (Includes preview access).
- Bidder Registration: €300 (Includes official catalogue and admission for two).
- Venue: Grimaldi Forum, 10 Av. Princesse Grace, 98000 Monaco
HEADLINE LOT: 1961 FERRARI 250 GT SWB CALIFORNIA SPIDER
The crown jewel of the Monaco auction is the 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider by Scaglietti, carrying an estimate of €14,500,000 – €16,500,000 EUR.
As the 26th of only 56 short-wheelbase examples ever built, this car is one of just 39 originally configured with highly desirable covered headlamps.
This specific chassis holds significant historical weight, having served as the official Ferrari show car at the 1961 IAA Frankfurt Motor Show.
Its pedigree is further solidified by a Ferrari Classiche “Red Book” certification, confirming the presence of its matching-numbers engine, gearbox, rear axle, and coachwork.
Following an extensive three-year restoration by renowned expert Dino Cognolato completed in 2022, the vehicle is finished in an elegant Blu Scuro over Rosso leather. It is accompanied by a rare silver hardtop, original tools, and a history report by marque authority Marcel Massini.
For the elite collector, this represents a rare opportunity to acquire the most celebrated classic open GT model in Maranello’s storied history.
TOP FIVE VERIFIED FEATURED LOTS
The 2026 Monaco lineup is headlined by a remarkable selection of Formula 1 legends and European sports icons. Highlights include:
- 1978 Ferrari 312 T3: Raced in period by Carlos Reutemann and Gilles Villeneuve, this Classiche-certified F1 legend is estimated at €4,500,000 – €5,500,000.
- 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari: A standout hybrid hypercar in the current catalog, estimated at €4,000,000 – €4,500,000.
- 1991 Ferrari 642: A one-of-five Formula 1 masterpiece driven by Alain Prost and Jean Alesi, estimated at €3,000,000 – €4,000,000.
- 1984 Toleman TG183B: The historic car in which Ayrton Senna made his Formula 1 debut, estimated at €2,800,000 – €3,800,000.
- 2024 Bugatti Bolide: A track-only modern marvel representing the pinnacle of W-16 performance, estimated at €3,500,000 – €4,500,000.
- RM SOTHEBY’S MONACO: THE GRAND PRIX HISTORIQUE SALE – APRIL 25, 2026.
Titled ‘The Monaco Auction,’ this exclusive sale serves as a primary indicator of the health of the high-end collector market. Collectors will gather to bid on a curated selection of world-class vehicles in one of the UK’s most exclusive settings.
EVENT SCHEDULE & LOGISTICS
- AUCTION DAY: Saturday – April 25, 2026
- PREVIEW HOURS: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- AUCTION START: Sessions begin at 6:00 PM GMT
ADMISSION & BIDDING INFORMATION
- Standard Admission: €100 (Includes preview access).
- Bidder Registration: €300 (Includes official catalogue and admission for two).
- Venue: Grimaldi Forum, 10 Av. Princesse Grace, 98000 Monaco
HEADLINE LOT: 1961 FERRARI 250 GT SWB CALIFORNIA SPIDER
The crown jewel of the Monaco auction is the 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider by Scaglietti, carrying an estimate of €14,500,000 – €16,500,000 EUR. As the 26th of only 56 short-wheelbase examples ever built, this car is one of just 39 originally configured with highly desirable covered headlamps. This specific chassis holds significant historical weight, having served as the official Ferrari show car at the 1961 IAA Frankfurt Motor Show. Its pedigree is further solidified by a Ferrari Classiche “Red Book” certification, confirming the presence of its matching-numbers engine, gearbox, rear axle, and coachwork.
Following a three-year restoration by renowned expert Dino Cognolato completed in 2022, the vehicle is finished in an elegant Blu Scuro over Rosso leather. It is accompanied by a rare silver hardtop, original tools, and a history report by marque authority Marcel Massini. For the elite collector, this represents a rare opportunity to acquire the most celebrated classic open GT model in Maranello’s storied history.
TOP FIVE VERIFIED FEATURED LOTS
The 2026 Monaco lineup is headlined by a remarkable selection of Formula 1 legends and European sports icons. Highlights include:
- 1978 Ferrari 312 T3: Raced in period by Carlos Reutemann and Gilles Villeneuve, this Classiche-certified F1 legend is estimated at €4,500,000 – €5,500,000.
- 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari: Formerly owned by Jay Kay and finished in a striking signature green, this modern hybrid hypercar is estimated at €4,000,000 – €4,500,000.
- 1991 Ferrari 642: A one-of-five Formula 1 masterpiece driven by Alain Prost and Jean Alesi, estimated at €3,000,000 – €4,000,000.
- 1984 Toleman TG183B: The historic car in which Ayrton Senna made his Formula 1 debut, estimated at €2,800,000 – €3,800,000.
- 1999 Bugatti EB112: One of only three prototypes built during the Artioli era, this ultra-rare Bugatti is estimated at €1,500,000 – €2,000,000.
- View All Lots For Sale
EXPERIENCE THE AUCTION
The RM Sotheby’s Monaco auction is more than a sale; it is a lifestyle event that embodies the luxury of the French Riviera. The Grimaldi Forum offers world-class amenities, including high-end catering and cocktail bars overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Guests can enjoy gourmet concessions and refreshments within the forum’s glass-walled lounge areas.
Due to the high-profile nature of the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique, parking in the immediate vicinity is extremely limited; attendees are encouraged to utilize the Monaco public parking structures. It is an unmatched weekend of speed, style, and historical significance.
EXPERIENCE THE AUCTION
The RM Sotheby’s Monaco auction is more than a sale; it is a lifestyle event that embodies the luxury of the French Riviera. The Grimaldi Forum offers world-class amenities, including high-end catering and cocktail bars overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Guests can enjoy gourmet concessions and refreshments within the forum’s glass-walled lounge areas.
Due to the high-profile nature of the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique, parking in the immediate vicinity is extremely limited; attendees are encouraged to utilize the Monaco public parking structures or take advantage of the VIP shuttle services provided to registered bidders. It is an unmatched weekend of speed, style, and historical significance.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Upcoming Car Shows, Concours d’Elegances & Car Auctions
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