What's happened
A pair of iconic ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in 'The Wizard of Oz' sold for $32.5 million at Heritage Auctions. The shoes, stolen in 2005 and recovered by the FBI in 2018, have a storied history and were one of only four surviving pairs from the film.
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Auction Dynamics
- Initial online bidding started at $1.55 million.
- Bidding escalated rapidly, reaching $32.5 million, significantly surpassing estimates.
Cultural Significance
- The slippers are considered 'the Holy Grail of Hollywood memorabilia.'
- Their sale reflects ongoing interest in classic films, especially with the recent success of 'Wicked.'
Legal Implications
- The case highlights issues surrounding art theft and recovery.
- Martin's sentencing to time served due to health concerns raises questions about justice in art crime.
Future of Memorabilia
- This sale sets a new benchmark for entertainment memorabilia, previously held by Marilyn Monroe's dress at $5.52 million.
- The auction's success may encourage more high-profile sales in the future.
What the papers say
According to the South China Morning Post, the auction saw intense bidding, with the final price reaching $32.5 million, far exceeding initial estimates of $3 million. The Guardian noted the slippers' tumultuous history, emphasizing their recovery by the FBI in 2018 after being stolen in 2005. Business Insider UK highlighted the slippers' cultural significance, calling them 'the Holy Grail of Hollywood memorabilia' and linking their sale to renewed interest in the musical genre following the success of 'Wicked.'
How we got here
The ruby slippers were stolen from the Judy Garland Museum in 2005 and remained missing for over a decade. They were recovered by the FBI in 2018, leading to the indictment of Terry Jon Martin, who pleaded guilty to the theft in 2023.
Common question
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How Were the Ruby Slippers Stolen and Recovered?
The ruby slippers, an iconic piece of Hollywood history, have a fascinating story that includes theft, recovery, and a record-breaking auction. This page explores the journey of these legendary shoes, their immense value, and the cultural significance they hold. Read on to discover more about their tumultuous past and what makes them so special.
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Why are the ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz so iconic?
The ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in 'The Wizard of Oz' are not just a pair of shoes; they are a symbol of Hollywood's golden age and a significant piece of pop culture history. Recently fetching a staggering $32.5 million at auction, these slippers have a fascinating backstory that continues to captivate audiences. Below, we explore their cultural impact, value, and some intriguing facts about the film.
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What Happened to the Ruby Slippers After They Were Stolen?
The ruby slippers, worn by Judy Garland in 'The Wizard of Oz,' have a fascinating history marked by theft, recovery, and a record-breaking auction. This iconic piece of Hollywood memorabilia recently sold for $32.5 million, sparking renewed interest in its storied past. What led to their theft, how were they recovered, and what does their auction reveal about the world of high-value collectibles?
More on these topics
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Judy Garland was an American actress, singer, vaudevillian and dancer. With a career spanning 45 years, she attained international stardom as an actress in both musical and dramatic roles, as a recording artist, and on the concert stage.
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The Federal Bureau of Investigation is the domestic intelligence and security service of the United States and its principal federal law enforcement agency.