The 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV, owned by Gandolfini's mob boss character Tony Soprano in the show's final three seasons, will go under the hammer as part of the Massachusetts-based RR Auction sale on 12 November (15).

The Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) was one of two identical models used during production, and the lot is made all the more special as it bears the actor's autograph on a panel above the glove box and on the inside of a sun visor.

The starting price has been set at $5,000 (£3,125) and the winning bidder will receive a certificate of authenticity signed by Gandolfini, reports NJ.com.

Records show the other model used in The Sopranos sold at auction in 2008 for a stunning $49,500 (£30,938).

The Sopranos ran from 1999 to 2007. Gandolfini died from a heart attack in 2013, aged 51.