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Press Release: Ruby Slippers from "The Wizard of Oz" Break Auction Records with $32.5 Million Sale
DALLAS, TX – The iconic ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in the classic film "The Wizard of Oz" made history Saturday, fetching a staggering $32.5 million at auction. This remarkable sale, conducted by Heritage Auctions, marks the highest price ever paid for movie memorabilia, far exceeding the pre-auction estimate of $3 million.
The final bid for the beloved footwear reached $28 million, with additional taxes and fees bringing the total to $32.5 million. The auction, which also showcased items such as the Wicked Witch’s black hat, achieved a remarkable total of $38.6 million, setting a new record for an entertainment auction.
"This breathtaking result reflects just how important movies and movie memorabilia are to our culture and to collectors," remarked Joe Maddalena, Executive Vice President at Heritage Auctions. The ruby slippers, one of only four surviving pairs from the 1939 film, were not only a symbol of Dorothy’s journey but also have an intriguing history. Stolen from the Judy Garland Museum in 2005, the shoes were recovered in 2018 after a years-long investigation. The thief, Terry Martin, confessed to taking them under the belief they were adorned with real rubies. He received a suspended prison sentence earlier this year.
Other notable items from "The Wizard of Oz" auctioned off included Garland’s wigs and various film memorabilia. The remarkable sale highlights the lasting impact of Hollywood classics on pop culture and the fervent interest of collectors in cinematic artifacts.
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