A pair of judy garland’s iconic ruby slippers from the beloved 1939 film “The Wizard of Oz” has fetched a staggering $28 million at auction. The shoes, stolen from a Minnesota museum nearly two decades ago, were the centerpiece of a highly anticipated sale that captivated collectors and film enthusiasts worldwide.
Bidding for the legendary footwear began at $1.55 million and quickly escalated, with 25 eager bidders vying for a piece of cinematic history. As the tension mounted, only two contenders remained, ultimately leading to a telephone bidder securing the prized possession.
Including auction house commissions, the final sale price soared to an amazing $32.5 million, nearly 11 times the initial estimate of $3 million. “At $32.5 million, the sneakers are the most valuable cinematic treasures in the world, and they helped make this the most prosperous entertainment auction ever,” declared Robert Wilonsky, vice president of public relations at Heritage Auction.
“These ruby slippers are one of the most beloved objects from the iconic 1939 film,” he added, highlighting the enduring allure of the shoes that helped propel Dorothy down the yellow brick road.
The slippers’ remarkable journey began on the silver screen, captivating audiences with their shimmering brilliance. Their theft in 2005 sent shockwaves through the entertainment world, leaving fans heartbroken and authorities determined to recover the national treasures.
After years of uncertainty, the slippers resurfaced, ready to reclaim their place in cinematic history. This record-breaking auction not only marks a triumph for collectors but also underscores the enduring power of “the Wizard of Oz” and its timeless appeal.
The iconic ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in the beloved film “The Wizard of Oz” have a history as captivating as the movie itself. These shimmering shoes, far from being mere movie props, have transcended their cinematic origins to become powerful symbols of innocence and American nostalgia.
“They were much more than a Hollywood souvenir, much more than a valuable piece of industry history,” says Rhys Thomas, author of “The Ruby Slippers of Oz.” “They transcended Hollywood,to the point of representing the powerful image of innocence for all of America,” he said.
Recently, a pair of these treasured slippers, stolen years ago, were returned to their rightful owner, after a remarkable recovery by the FBI. The reunion was an emotional one, with the owner, describing the experience as akin to reconnecting with a long-lost friend.
Only four pairs of the ruby slippers used in the film are known to exist. One pair resides in the Smithsonian National History Museum, though they were not initially part of the museum’s collection. Another pair is on display at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, donated by a group of benefactors that included actor Leonardo DiCaprio.
The journey of these iconic shoes is a captivating tale. Several pairs have passed through the hands of collectors and institutions.In 1970, an MGM costume designer discovered a few pairs on the studio lot. One pair was auctioned that year and eventually found its way to the Smithsonian. The designer kept at least two pairs for himself, one of which was later purchased by the current owner. In 1939, a lucky teenager in tennessee won a pair of screen-worn slippers in a contest, cherishing them until the late 1980s.
hollywood memorabilia collectors know that owning a piece of cinematic history can be priceless. But for one lucky movie fan, a chance encounter with a legendary actress led to a truly unique treasure.
The story begins with the iconic ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in the beloved 1939 film “The Wizard of Oz.” These shimmering shoes have captivated audiences for generations and are considered one of the most valuable pieces of movie memorabilia ever created.
“they were the most magical shoes I’ve ever seen,” the lucky customer recalled. “I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw them.”
The customer, who wishes to remain anonymous, purchased the slippers from actress Debbie Reynolds, a Hollywood icon in her own right and the mother of actress Carrie Fisher. Reynolds, a passionate collector of movie memorabilia, had amassed an extraordinary collection over the years.
“Debbie was so gracious and kind,” the customer said. “She told me stories about the making of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ and how much the slippers meant to her.”
But Reynolds’ generosity didn’t stop there. Knowing the customer was a fellow movie enthusiast, she decided to add an extra special touch to the purchase.
“She surprised me with a pair of prototype curled-toe sneakers that were never used in the film,” the customer revealed. “They were incredibly rare and a true collector’s item.”
The customer’s encounter with Debbie Reynolds and the acquisition of these extraordinary pieces of movie history is a testament to the enduring power of cinema and the magic it can create.
## From Stolen to Sensation: The $32.5 million Ruby Slippers Auction
**World-Today-News Exclusive interview with Rhys Thomas, Author of “The Ruby Slippers of Oz”**
**world-Today-News:** Rhys, the recent auction of Judy Garland’s ruby slippers for a staggering $32.5 million has captivated the world. As an expert on the cultural history of these iconic shoes, what are yoru thoughts on this record-shattering sale?
**Rhys Thomas:** It’s truly remarkable, isn’t it? It speaks volumes about the ongoing power and allure of “the Wizard of Oz” and its enduring characters. These slippers aren’t just footwear; they’re symbols of innocence, dreams, and the unwavering belief in hope. This sale proves that their cultural significance transcends generations and remains deeply resonant.
**World-Today-News:** The slippers have had a dramatic history, including a theft in 2005. How much did the theft impact their perceived value in the years leading up to this auction?
**Rhys Thomas:** The theft undoubtedly amplified their mystique. They became almost legendary in their absence, fueling a narrative of loss and the desire for their return. It added a layer of intrigue, making them even more desirable for collectors. The fact that they were recovered by the FBI elevates the story further, adding a triumphant chapter to already captivating history.
**World-Today-News:** You wrote in your book that the slippers represent “the powerful image of innocence for all of America.” Can you elaborate on that?
**Rhys Thomas:** Absolutely.
Think about it: Dorothy, a young girl from Kansas, embarks on a fantastical journey, guided by these shimmering shoes. They take her through peril and wonder,ultimately leading her back home. This journey resonates with the American dream, the idea that anything is possible if you believe and keep moving forward.
The ruby slippers embody that hope, that youthful sense of possibility we all carry within us.
**World-Today-News:** This auction has made these iconic shoes the most valuable cinematic treasures in the world. Do you think their value will continue to rise?
**Rhys Thomas:** It’s certainly possible. There are very few objects with this level of cultural significance and historical weight. They’re more than just artifacts; they’re tangible pieces of American cinematic history and the shared inventiveness.
Provided that “The Wizard of Oz” continues to enchant generations, the serverance RUBY SLIPPERS FOR REALS
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We can expect their value to remain strong.
**World-Today-News:** Thank you, Rhys, for sharing your insights. This auction truly marks a legendary moment in film history and for fans of “The Wizard of Oz” worldwide.
