Storage units can be gold mines for those seeking rare and valuable items. We often see articles on the news about incredible finds that net their owner a considerable financial reward. This 1969 Corvette wasn’t discovered in a storage unit, but it appears its owner may have left it parked there for years. It doesn’t currently run, but with the values of early C3 Corvettes growing steadily, it could make an excellent restoration and investment. The C3 is listed here on Craigslist in Charlotte, North Carolina. The seller set their price at $9,000, making it a tempting proposition. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Chuck F for spotting this fantastic find.

The supplied photos of this Corvette are, to be polite, pretty ordinary. However, there may be a valid reason for the seller’s approach. They say the steering column is stripped, meaning that while it might roll, it doesn’t steer. Moving it out of the unit to get better shots may be possible, but returning it to its current resting spot could prove too difficult. The car wears Can-Am White paint that shines surprisingly well. There are marks and blemishes, and a repaint would make a huge difference. No fiberglass issues are visible, but determining whether there are problems would take an in-person inspection. The same is true when the subject turns to potential rust in the frame or birdcage because they don’t rate a mention in the listing. Surface corrosion is visible in some areas but appears pretty mild and dry, which is encouraging. The front bumper is missing, but we don’t get a clear look to confirm the presence of the back bumperettes. The ‘Vette also rolls on odd wheels, meaning the buyer needs to source replacements.

The seller is sparing in their mechanical description of this Stingray, with the stripped steering column the only information provided. The engine bay houses a 350ci small-block that would have sent its power to the back wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. The C3 was probably at its peak in 1969 because even the entry-level 350 churned out 300hp. That was enough power to launch the Corvette through the ¼ mile in 14.6 seconds. If it happens to be the L46 version, the power output rises to 350hp, and the ¼-mile ET drops to 14.1 seconds. This classic sends us mixed messages because its exterior appearance suggests it has been sitting for a while. However, the new alternator indicates the car may have seen recent use. It is missing the original air cleaner assembly and ignition shield, but I can’t spot any other changes. If the V8 turns freely, reviving it may not be difficult.

One trait shared between this Stingray’s interior and exterior is they both need TLC. The Black vinyl upholstery looks dirty, and I would treat everything to a thorough clean before compiling a shopping list. The seller mentions the steering column issue, and the back section of the console is broken beyond repair. The carpet exhibits the typical wear and fading issues, but it is serviceable if the buyer plans to return this classic to active duty quickly. There are no aftermarket additions, and the tilt/telescopic wheel and AM/FM radio appear to be the only optional extras. There may not be air conditioning to provide comfort on hot days, but removing the T-Top panels and back window should make life more pleasant.

The limited photos make it difficult to assess this 1969 Corvette’s overall condition, but it looks like it has spent many years in dry storage. That should be positive news for potential buyers, especially with values continuing to climb. The car’s storage history may mean it has no structural rust, making a cosmetic restoration relatively inexpensive. Hagerty lists a value of $16,100 for a #4 example, while spotless vehicles with a small-block under the hood regularly sell for more than $40,000. The sale price on this car leaves plenty of room to move on its restoration, especially if the new owner elects to be hands-on in their approach. Are those thoughts enough to tempt you to pursue it further?