A pair of ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in “The Wizard of Oz” has shattered records, selling for an astonishing $28 million at auction.
At a Glance
- Dorothy’s ruby slippers from “The Wizard of Oz” sold for $28 million at auction
- The total sale, including buyer’s premium, reached $32.5 million
- This sale set a new record for entertainment memorabilia
- The slippers are considered the most iconic piece of movie memorabilia
- The auction coincided with renewed interest in “The Wizard of Oz” due to the “Wicked” prequel
Record-Breaking Auction
In a landmark auction that captivated film enthusiasts and collectors alike, a pair of ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in the 1939 classic “The Wizard of Oz” has set a new benchmark for entertainment memorabilia. The iconic footwear fetched an extraordinary $28 million, with the total sale, including the buyer’s premium, reaching $32.5 million. This astronomical figure dwarfs the previous record of $5.52 million, set by Marilyn Monroe’s white halter dress from “The Seven Year Itch.”
The auction, conducted by Heritage Auctions in Dallas, attracted global attention and highlighted the enduring cultural significance of “The Wizard of Oz.” The ruby slippers, designed by costume designer Adrian and crafted by the Innes Shoe Company, have long been considered the crown jewel of Hollywood memorabilia.
Cultural Significance
The record-breaking sale underscores the lasting impact of “The Wizard of Oz” on American culture and the film industry. These slippers represent more than just a costume piece; they embody the magic and wonder of cinema that has captivated audiences for generations.
“There is simply no comparison between Judy Garland’s ruby slippers and any other piece of Hollywood memorabilia,” Joe Maddalena, Executive Vice President of Heritage Auctions, said.
The ruby slippers have a storied history that adds to their allure. This particular pair was screen-matched and had a notable provenance, having been stolen in 2005 and recovered by the FBI in 2018. The mystery surrounding their disappearance and subsequent recovery only enhanced their legendary status.
A Coveted Piece of Cinema History
Only four pairs of the original ruby slippers are known to exist. One pair resides at the Smithsonian, another was purchased by a consortium led by Leonardo DiCaprio and Steven Spielberg, and a third is believed to be in the hands of a private collector. This scarcity contributes significantly to their value and desirability among collectors.
“The breathtaking result reflects just how important movies and movie memorabilia are to our culture and to collectors. It’s been a privilege for all of us at Heritage to be a part of the slippers’ epic journey over the rainbow and off to a new home,” Maddalena added.
The auction’s timing coincided with a resurgence of interest in “The Wizard of Oz,” partly due to the release of the prequel movie “Wicked.” This renewed attention likely contributed to the unprecedented sale price, which far exceeded the expected $10 million.
As the ruby slippers find a new home with an anonymous buyer, their legacy as a symbol of cinematic magic continues. The sale not only sets a new standard for movie memorabilia but also reaffirms the enduring appeal of classic films and their ability to inspire wonder across generations.
