The legendary ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz, which were famously worn by Judy Garland’s character Dorothy, are now set to be auctioned nearly 20 years after being stolen. These iconic shoes, one of only a few surviving pairs used in the 1939 film, were taken in a daring heist from the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, in 2005. Their disappearance sparked an extensive investigation, which culminated in their recovery in 2018.
The slippers were returned to the museum after a lengthy search, but their theft and subsequent recovery only added to their allure as highly sought-after pieces of cinematic history. The shoes were recovered with some damage, including missing sequins and wear from the years spent hidden away, but their cultural significance has only grown. After years of legal processes and restoration efforts, the slippers will now be put up for sale, allowing collectors and fans alike to bid on one of Hollywood’s most beloved and valuable movie artifacts.
These ruby slippers are among the most recognized props in film history. Their bright red glittering surface, combined with the shoes’ central role in the movie’s plot, makes them a symbol of the film’s enduring popularity and its impact on pop culture. The slippers were originally designed by famous costume designer Gilbert Adrian, and their vibrant red color was chosen to stand out against the yellow brick road and Dorothy’s blue gingham dress.
The upcoming auction is expected to draw significant attention, not only from serious collectors but also from those with a deep affection for the film. The shoes have been valued at millions of dollars, making them an incredibly rare and expensive piece of movie memorabilia. Experts expect the auction to break records, given the historical and sentimental value of these shoes, and their status as a symbol of both the film and the wider cultural impact of The Wizard of Oz.
The sale of the ruby slippers marks the culmination of a long journey for the item, which is now being sold by a private collector who obtained them after their return. The auction will be a significant event for both the memorabilia market and fans of the movie. As part of the sale, the slippers will be displayed at the auction house for public viewing before the bidding begins, giving enthusiasts the chance to admire the iconic piece up close.
This auction will not only be a remarkable moment for collectors but also a final chapter in the story of the famous slippers that were stolen, lost, and ultimately returned. Their sale represents a remarkable intersection of Hollywood history, criminal intrigue, and the cultural phenomenon that The Wizard of Oz continues to be. For fans of the film and collectors of Hollywood memorabilia, this will undoubtedly be an event worth watching closely.
The high price expected for the slippers reflects not just their rarity but their status as a central part of one of the most beloved films in cinematic history. Whether for their historical significance or their connection to the magic of the movie, these slippers will always be a symbol of The Wizard of Oz, and now, they are available for someone to take home.
