One of the best habits American automakers have developed in recent years is auctioning off the first production unit of their hot new models for charity. Now it’s Ford’s turn to send the first Shelby GT350R Mustang to the auction block, and the job of doing it is given to Barrett-Jackson.

The pro auctioneers will sell the Shelby GT350R Mustang VIN#001 at their Scottsdale event on Saturday. The winning bidder of lot No. 3008 – selling at No Reserve – will be able to option the car with any available colors and packages.

All the proceeds from the sales of the first Shelby GT350R will benefit Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) which funds type 1 diabetes research.

“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.”

The 500-hp, track-tuned muscle car is a lean and mean machine itself, having got rid of all the excess fat and sugar in its recipe, achieving higher levels of performance through lightness.