Historic Auction of Ruby Slippers

A stunning pair of ruby slippers, famously worn by Judy Garland in the 1939 classic *The Wizard of Oz*, has just set a historic record, selling for an astounding $28 million during a recent auction on Saturday. This remarkable sale far surpassed initial estimates by Heritage Auctions, which expected the prized footwear to fetch around $3 million.

Excitement and Bidding War

As the auction unfolded, excitement filled the air as multiple bidders engaged in fierce competition. Within mere minutes, the bids skyrocketed, eventually reaching a jaw-dropping total of $32.5 million, inclusive of the auction house's fees. This auction has not only made headlines but also highlighted the enduring allure of classic Hollywood memorabilia.

The Slippers' Dark History

The iconic slippers previously held a dark history—having been stolen from the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, back in 2005. The notorious theft was executed by Terry Jon Martin, who brazenly smashed the museum's glass display case. For over a decade, the slippers' fate remained unknown until the FBI recovered them in 2018. Martin, who has a significant criminal history, was eventually indicted in May 2023 and pleaded guilty in October. Due to his declining health, he received a sentence of time served and was seen in court using a wheelchair and supplemental oxygen.

Martin's Misguided Actions

According to Martin's attorney, he fell prey to misguided advice from an associate linked to organized crime, who claimed the shoes contained genuine jewels. After realizing the rubies were merely glass, Martin disposed of the slippers, though details of their disposal remain mysterious.

Ongoing Investigations

The saga doesn’t end there. An alleged accomplice, Jerry Hal Saliterman, is facing charges after being indicted in March. Like Martin, Saliterman made his initial court appearance in similar condition, raising questions about his involvement in this audacious theft.

Return of the Slippers

After their recovery, the slippers were returned in February to memorabilia collector Michael Shaw, who had previously loaned them to the museum. These shoes are among only four surviving pairs that Garland wore during the filming of *The Wizard of Oz*. In the legendary film, the sparkling heels symbolize the power of home, where Dorothy famously clicks her heels together and recites, “There’s no place like home.”

Auction's Record-Breaking Impact

The auction has attracted tremendous attention, with over 800 enthusiasts tracking the slippers and the auction webpage amassing nearly 43,000 views just before the bidding commenced. The Judy Garland Museum even campaigned to secure funds to place a bid, but they ultimately lost out.

Significance of the Sale

The significance of this auction extends beyond the slippers themselves. Previously, the record for the most expensive piece of entertainment memorabilia stood at $5.52 million for Marilyn Monroe's iconic white dress from *The Seven Year Itch*. This record has now been shattered.

Additional Auction Highlights

Additional items from *The Wizard of Oz* were also part of the auction, including a hat worn by Margaret Hamilton, the original Wicked Witch of the West, which sold for $2.4 million—totaling approximately $2.93 million for the winning bidder.

A Legacy Preserved

As the bidding world eagerly watches, the ruby slippers stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of American cinema and its most cherished treasures. What could possibly be next in this world of staggering collectibles? Stay tuned for more jaw-dropping auctions!