The Chevrolet Corvette, a symbol of American performance, has a history that traces back to the post-World War II era. The first model, launched in 1953, was vastly different from today’s supercar. It featured a 150-horsepower “Blue Flame Six” engine paired with a two-speed automatic transmission and was available only in Polo White with a Sportsman Red interior. This inaugural model had notable quirks, such as no exterior door handles and plastic snap-in side curtains instead of glass windows.

According to a report by Jadeh Makhsoos News, only 300 units were produced in the first year. General Motors retained the first three cars off the assembly line for further testing and development, and for a long time, the vehicle with serial number 001 was presumed to have been destroyed and lost to history.

This specific vehicle, known internally as Engineering Car #3950, served as a crucial testbed for improvements that would be incorporated into later models. Engineers modified it to lower the seat height, raise the steering column for more driver room, and refine the fuel filler door design. After its role as a prototype, it is believed a GM insider purchased the car, though its trail went cold.

The car resurfaced in the early 2000s when it was sent to a restoration shop in Oklahoma, where it sat untouched for nearly 20 years. Eventually, Corvette expert Corey Petersen acquired the vehicle. While cleaning out the trunk, which was filled with spare parts, he made a monumental discovery hidden inside a cardboard box: the car’s original VIN plate, clearly marked with the serial number E53F001001.

According to Jadeh Makhsoos News, the first Corvette ever built had finally been found. Despite its current unrestored condition, the historic car was publicly displayed at the Corvettes at Carlisle event in Pennsylvania. While a standard 1953 Corvette in fair condition is valued around $130,000, the unique status of this vehicle as the very first in a legendary lineage makes its true worth immeasurable to automotive historians. What are your thoughts on this incredible piece of automotive history? Share your opinion in the comments.