Ruby Slippers from ‘The Wizard of Oz’ Fetch Record $28 Million at Auction

A pair of ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in “The Wizard of Oz” sold for $28 million at auction, far exceeding initial estimates. Stolen in 2005 and recovered in 2018, they captured significant interest, culminating in a record-breaking sale. The auction showcased a rich history of Hollywood memorabilia and sparked renewed fascination with the beloved film.

In a dazzling auction event, a pair of ruby slippers once worn by Judy Garland in the classic film “The Wizard of Oz” sold for an astonishing $28 million, far exceeding initial estimates of just $3 million. The auction, held by Heritage Auctions, sparked a frenzy of bidding that escalated swiftly, capturing the attention of over 800 eager participants, with many engaging in intense phone disputes that raised the final bid to an eye-watering $32.5 million inclusive of fees. These famous slippers, rediscovered after their theft from a museum nearly 20 years ago, have embarked on a remarkable journey that mirrors Dorothy’s own adventures.

These vibrant ruby slippers were stolen by Terry Jon Martin from the Judy Garland Museum in Minnesota in 2005, and their location remained a mystery until 2018 when the FBI recovered them. Martin, now in his late seventies, had a lengthy criminal history and was eventually indicted for the theft earlier this year. His attorney shared how Martin was misled about the slippers’ worth by an old associate, leading him to dispose of them. Following their recovery, the shoes were returned to memorabilia collector Michael Shaw, highlighting a surreal journey of lost treasures and legal entanglements.

The auction, heralded as a monumental moment for entertainment memorabilia, eclipsed the previous record of $5.52 million for Marilyn Monroe’s iconic white dress. It featured other items from the beloved film,” including a hat worn by Margaret Hamilton as the Wicked Witch of the West, which fetched nearly $3 million. Amidst the excitement, the Judy Garland Museum, although a bidder, did not win the prized slippers despite efforts to raise funds, showcasing their enduring legacy in pop culture and cinema. As the story gains momentum, particularly with the recent release of the film “Wicked,” the slippers stand as a gleaming symbol of nostalgia and cinematic wonder, ultimately reminding us of the magic within the realm of Oz.

The ruby slippers from “The Wizard of Oz” have long been a cherished symbol of American film history. Worn by Judy Garland in the legendary 1939 movie, these striking shoes transformed Dorothy into a cultural icon and have since captured the imaginations of generations. Following their theft in 2005 and subsequent recovery in 2018, the slippers’ journey is both dramatic and captivating, illustrating the themes of adventure and perseverance that resonate throughout the original story. With their recent auction garnering record-breaking bids, the slippers remain as alluring and sparkling as ever, drawing attention like a glimmering beacon of Hollywood lore. The auction not only reignited interest in the film but also highlighted the ongoing fascination with cinematic memorabilia, marking a significant chapter in the story of these extraordinary shoes.

The auction of the ruby slippers stands as a testament to the enduring allure of classic cinema, capturing the hearts of many while setting new records in the memorabilia market. From their theft and subsequent recovery to their astounding sale price, these slippers continue to weave their narrative through time. The excitement surrounding the auction not only ignites nostalgia for “The Wizard of Oz” but also showcases how icons can persist in cultural relevance, reminding us of the stories they represent and the dreams they inspire.

Original Source: www.pbs.org