If I'm not mistaken the Google (GOOG) IPO was in the form of an auction, organised by their chief economist Hal Varian (wonderful name). Though based on a firm

If I'm not mistaken the Google (GOOG) IPO was in the form of an auction, organised by their chief economist Hal Varian (wonderful name). Though based on a firm economic foundation and financially sound, the idea itself was (and remains) somewhat controversial.