One of the DeLoreans from the set of Back to the Future is going up for auction at a Profiles in History event. The car is one of seven that were specially made for the movies, and this is one of three surviving models in existence.

Used by Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) in the Back to the Future III film, the DeLorean time machine features all sorts of gadgets which help it achieve time travel. There’s a bunch of exterior accessories and jet thrusters at the back, as well as the famous flux capacitor in the cabin.

The DeLorean up for auction is believed to have been used in the scene where Marty McFly travels from 1955 to 1885 to meet up with Doc. The car had to be set up for off-road use in the scene, so the prop specialists had the DeLorean raised and kitted out with off-road equipment.

In case there are any doubts that it is the real thing – as we’re sure there are loads of wannabes out there – the car will come with an official Universal Studios certificate of authenticity, including the original Bill of Sale documents and VIN.

This is without doubt one of the most highly sought-after items for Back to the Future fans as other DeLoreans from the movie are said to be still owned by Universal Studios. This example is expected to fetch anywhere from US$400,000 to $600,000.

The Profiles in History auction will take place in California on December 15-17. Other items from Hollywood sets will also go under the hammer. Online bidding is available through the company’s website.