The singer purchased the white 1965 Porsche 356C Cabriolet in 1968 and had it personalised with a colourful mural by a close friend.

Joplin's family took ownership of the sports car after her tragic drug overdose death in 1970, and has allowed it to be displayed at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland, Ohio since the 1990s.

However, the vehicle is now heading to the auction block and will go under the hammer at Sotheby's New York on 10 December (15).