A Harley-Davidson motorcycle blessed with the signature of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, and later received by Pope Francis, is to be sold for charity at Bonhams Paris Sale on 5 February. The motorcycle is to be offered as part of the Grand Palais auction, and has an estimate of €15,000-25,000 (£11,700-19,600).

In a special countdown to Harley-Davidson's 110th anniversary celebrations, two commemorative motorcycle petrol tanks were presented to Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. These were signed and returned to the legendary company's US headquarters, where they were mounted on their respective motorcycles. One of these remains in the Harley-Davidson museum in Milwaukee, USA.

The other motorcycle – the FLSTC 103 Heritage Softail Classic destined for Bonhams 2015 sale - lay waiting for a special ceremony where it would be presented to the Pope in front of tens of thousands of Harley-Davidson riders at the 110th anniversary celebration in 2013. However, in an unforeseen change to the papacy, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI abdicated in January 2013, which saw the Softail Classic presented to the newly inaugurated Pope, His Holiness Pope Francis.

'It's an honour to have been selected to sell this fantastic machine. We expect a lot of interest, and hope to raise some spirited bidding for the very worthy charity selected,' said Ben Walker, International Director for Bonhams Motorcycle Department.

'In February 2014, Bonhams sold a 1,585cc Harley-Davidson Dyna Super Glide signed by His Holiness Pope Francis. Now we're delighted to offer a motorcycle received by both Pope Francis and Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. It was present during a pivotal period in the papacy of the Catholic Church, and we expect a lot of interest in it.'

The auction proceeds for this unique motorcycle will be donated to Stowarzyszenie Przyjazny Świat Dziecka (Friendly World Association), an independent, non-profit organisation from Poland which offers care and support to children and families in need.

With some incredible vehicles already confirmed, Bonhams is still accepting select consignments for the Grand Palais Sale. Sellers interested in consigning rare and important motorcycles to this internationally attended auction can contact Bonhams motorcycle representatives here.