"This lens appears to be a previously unknown second copy of a very rare prototype lens that most recently sold for nearly $50,000."

It's currently only $3k with 11hrs to go

EDIT:

I see this as quick, fun article featuring an interesting lens and a bit of Leica history with the ongoing auction adding a bit of suspense to the story.

I get the "barn find" fantasy, but commenters complaining that someone is writing about an auction for a lens that they never knew existed and they weren't biding on is among the silliest of FOMO reactions. At least this way we all get to learn a little bit, and it has a better chance of getting properly preserved.