The very first 2016 GT350 to roll off the line will be put to very good use. This factory hot-rodded Ford GT350 Mustang (Lot No. 3008, just in case you’re interested) will go to auction on Saturday, January 17, 2015 at Barrett-Jackson in Scottsdale, Arizona, and the proceeds from that sale will benefit JDRF, the country’s leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes research. In addition, the Ron Pratte Collection of cars, including some very rare Mustangs, will be on the block. Live coverage of the auction will air on Velocity.

This sweet 1968 Shelby GT500 KR Convertible will also go on the block.

“JDRF is privileged to work with Ford, and we are extremely grateful for the generous support from Ford and its employees through the years,” said John Brady, JDRF chairman, international board of directors. “We are honored to be part of the company’s 50-year celebration of the Shelby GT350 at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale. This very exciting and worthwhile event means a great deal to not only JDRF and the type 1 community, but to me personally as well. We are dedicated to continue our work and to share our vision of creating a world without type 1 diabetes.”

Through this auction event, Ford Motor Company will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the legendary Shelby GT350 Mustang. “The all-new Shelby GT350 is a thrilling, world-class car,” said Steve Ling, North America car marketing manager for Ford. “From the all-new independent suspension–a first for a Shelby, to the powerful engine and superb brakes, this car is simply amazing. Just as the Shelby GT350 did in 1965, we expect this new-generation pony car to demonstrate Ford Motor Company continues to lead the world in innovation and performance.”

Carroll Shelby and Ford Motor Company blew the doors off the automotive industry with the introduction of the GT350 in January 1964. Offered through Ford dealers from 1965 through 1970, surviving examples of the historic muscle car are among the most collectible vehicles in the world. The new Ford Shelby GT350 looks to be as much of a slam-dunk as the original track-eating beast. With Ron Pratte thinning his collection, we have to wonder, who will be the winning bidder for the very first 2016 GT350.

The Ron Pratte Collection, which includes some very rare Mustangs will be up for sale.