An original 289 Shelby Cobra, CSX2091 and the first production 1966 Shelby GT350 will headline a series of spectacular cars slated to be sold at no reserve during the 39th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Scottsdale on January 18-24, 2010.

The CSX2091 is one of only 453 total street versions of the 289 Cobra that were built, and the SFM6S002 is the first production Shelby GT350 made in 1966, according to Shelby American Automobile Club experts.

"This Cobra and GT350 represent American performance at its height during a time when Ford and Shelby were beginning to flex their muscles in sports car racing," said Barrett-Jackson Chairman/CEO, Craig Jackson.

"While many wonderful Shelby cars have crossed our block over the years, I believe these cars would make a fantastic centerpiece to any collection due to their condition, rarity and historical significance."

According to SAAC's most recent registry, Shelby American shipped the CSX2091 on June 11, 1963, to Burton Motors of Sacramento, California.

The restored 289 Shelby Cobra (CSX2091) will be sold at no reserve

The roadster was restored in 1991 to its original black exterior with red interior and wire wheels; it is one of 13 made in this combination. The Cobra features its original 271 horsepower engine, four-speed transmission, worm and sector steering, suspension and aluminium body.

"With their low production numbers, versatility and racing history, well maintained, documented small block Cobras have held their values over that past decade," said Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson.

"The CSX2091 Cobra underwent a restoration to return it to its original configuration in 1991 and remains in excellent condition with only 29,687 miles on its odometer. And since original Cobras usually qualify for historic events, it can also be driven on rallies and in other high profile events."

The Shelby GT350, SFM6S002 is the very first 1966 production Shelby built and the first of 252 "carryover" cars. The first serial numbered 66 Shelby "SFM6S001", it was a standard 65 Mustang pulled from the assembly line and modified as a prototype for production 1966 Shelbys.

"The early production 'carry-over cars' combined the best of the 1965 and 1966 GT350 models," explained Davis.

"While it retains the hardcore performance features of the 1965 model, this Shelby also has the distinctive 1966 visual features added that set it apart from regular production Mustangs."

The SFM6S002 has had a complete ground up restoration to its original Wimbledon White with Guardsman Blue Le Mans stripes by Cobra Automotive of Wallingford, Connecticut. No expense was spared in the restoration back to its original state with many original date-coded parts.

The car is powered by its fully rebuilt 289 HiPo V8 and backed by the correct T-10M Aluminium four-speed transmission. It is equipped with a Holley 715 CFM carburettor, 3:89 Detroit locker rear, original dash mounted tach, wood grain steering wheel, original rear seat delete package shelf and Shelby Cragar 15" wheels mounted on Goodyear Bluedot tires.

Listed in the SAAC Registry, the SFM6S002 comes with its original Shelby owner's manual supplement and authentication.

"According to the consignor, the car has a tremendous racing history," noted Jackson. "Shortly after the second owner acquired the car, it was extensively raced in the Mid West including Road America, Black Hawk Farms, Grattan, Mid Ohio, Road Atlanta & Watkins Glen.

"Its 'Number One' production status and its racing pedigree make this a historically significant Shelby."

The sale will take place in Scottsdale, Arizona.