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The Most Shocking Celebrity Items Auctioned To Date

Celebrity memorabilia auctions are a tapestry of fascinating artifacts offering a glimpse into the lives of the rich and famous. From iconic garments to peculiar keepsakes, the market for celebrity items continues to captivate collectors worldwide, and we have compiled a list of such items. One addition to this eclectic mix is the late OJ Simpson’s Bank of America credit card in 2024, so read on!

Princess Diana’s 1985 White House Gown: $453,000

Princess Diana’s stunning blue velvet gown, worn during her famous dance with John Travolta at the White House in 1985, fetched an astonishing $453K at auction. The Victor Edelstein-designed dress is hailed as one of the most iconic outfits worn by the princess. According to Lucy Bishop from Kerry Taylor Auctions, the dress captivated audiences at the time and continues to be celebrated for its historical significance and breathtaking style.

Olivia Newton-John’s “Grease” Outfit: $405,700

Olivia Newton-John’s iconic leather jacket and pants from the finale of “Grease” were auctioned for a surprising $405.7K, far exceeding initial estimates of $200K. This sale at Julien’s Auctions not only highlights the film’s enduring popularity but also supports a noble cause. All proceeds were donated to the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Center, aiding in cancer research and care.

Lady Gaga’s Golden Globes Gown: Undisclosed

Can you believe a hotel employee discovered Lady Gaga’s striking periwinkle Valentino Haute Couture gown from the 2019 Golden Globes after the event? They even auctioned it right after! From meat dresses to dazzling couture gowns, her style is as dynamic and impactful as her music, which includes hits like “Bad Romance” and “Shallow.”

Kurt Cobain’s Sweater: $334,000

The olive green cardigan Kurt Cobain wore during Nirvana’s 1993 MTV Unplugged performance is more than just a piece of clothing. The poignant relic of music history, with an accompanying note from Kurt’s family friend, sold for a hefty $334K. His raw lyrics and distinct voice helped propel albums like “Nevermind” and “In Utero” to critical and commercial success, making tracks like “Smells Like Teen Spirit” anthems of a generation.

The Titanic Dress: $330,000

Kate Winslet’s iconic red dress from “Titanic” snagged a whopping $330K at auction, proving that Rose DeWitt Bukater’s wardrobe is just as unforgettable as the film itself. The hefty price tag speaks volumes about the lasting love for her portrayal and the enduring legacy of the James Cameron 1997 blockbuster itself. Kate has since showcased her talents in various roles, accumulating several awards, including an Oscar for her role in “The Reader.”

Andy Warhol’s Wig: $10,800

How much would you pay for a piece of pop art history? Andy Warhol’s iconic silver wig fetched $10.8K at auction, reflecting his unique style and profound impact on the pop art movement. More than just a fashion accessory, the wig symbolized his intricate relationship with his identity and public image. Andy revolutionized visual art by depicting commercial goods and celebrities, challenging the norms, and establishing himself as a cultural icon.

Marilyn Monroe’s ‘Happy Birthday, Mr. President’ Dress: $4.8 Million

Imagine the buzz around Marilyn Monroe’s gown when it hit the auction block and snagged a cool $4.8 million. It’s the very dress she wore in 1962 when she breathily sang “Happy Birthday” to President John F. Kennedy at Madison Square Garden. Draped in thousands of crystals and rhinestones, this gown is pure Marilyn—glamorous and unforgettable. It’s a piece of American history that captures one of the most iconic moments of the “Love Happy” star.

Dorothy’s Ruby Red Slippers: Undisclosed

Who could forget when Judy Garland clicked her heels in “The Wizard of Oz”? Those iconic ruby red slippers just fetched $6 million at auction. It’s a fascinating tale—several pairs were made for the film, and one pair even sparked an FBI recovery mission after being stolen. This 1939 flick, directed by Victor Fleming, is a masterpiece of early Technicolor and imaginative storytelling. Adapted from L. Frank Baum’s novel, it became a visual spectacle that has enchanted audiences for decades.

Elvis’ Underwear: $8,000

Someone shelled out $8K for Elvis Presley’s unwashed briefs, worn under his iconic jumpsuits to avoid lines. Yes, you read that right. This sale highlights the quirks of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll and the dedication of his fans. Elvis, born January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi, revolutionized American music with hits like “Hound Dog” and “Jailhouse Rock” and became a cultural icon with his distinctive style and electrifying performances.

Elizabeth Taylor’s Jewelry Collection: $116 million

Elizabeth Taylor’s famed jewelry collection, known for its lavish pieces, garnered a staggering $116 million at auction. Talk about lavish! A highlight was the Bulgari emerald-and-diamond brooch, a Richard Burton gift that symbolizes their storied and tumultuous romance. The “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” actress wasn’t just a movie star but a cultural icon renowned for her beauty and charm.

Lady Gaga’s Acrylic Nail: $12,000

Born Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta on March 28, 1986, Lady Gaga isn’t just a pop star—she’s also a talented actress. Remember her role in “A Star is Born” (2018)? She nailed it, earning an Oscar nomination for Best Actress. And guess what? An acrylic nail of hers once sold for a crazy $12K! See how die-hard fans go wild for anything their favorite celebs touch.

A Lock of Justin Bieber’s Hair: $40,668

Get this: a lock of Justin Bieber’s hair fetched around $40K at a charity auction! Crazy, right? Born on March 1, 1994, in Ontario, Canada, he first shot to stardom on YouTube, eventually releasing hits like “Baby” and “Peaches.” But he’s not just about the music; Justin’s also known for his charity work, using his fame to impact the world positively.

Willie Nelson’s Braids: $37,000

Willie Nelson’s braids, gifted by Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash, fetched $37K at auction. This unique item reflects the singer-songwriter’s distinct personal style and deep connections within the country music community. Willie, a legendary figure in country music, is renowned for hits like “On the Road Again” and “Always on My Mind.” Beyond his music career, he’s known for his activism and advocacy.

Audrey Hepburn’s “Charade” Dress: $91,988

Audrey Hepburn’s stunning Givenchy gown from “Charade” was auctioned off for $92K. This dress isn’t just a piece of clothing; it’s a symbol of Audrey’s timeless elegance and fashion legacy. The Belgium-born star wasn’t just a movie star; she was a style icon. With classics like “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” and “Roman Holiday,” she stole hearts with grace and charm. Her humanitarian work also earned her the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

OJ Simpson’s Bank of America Credit Card: Topping $2,500

The auction for OJ Simpson’s Bank of America credit card has sparked significant interest, with bids exceeding $2.5K. Following the former professional football player’s passing in April 2024, interest in the item surged, driving up the bidding frenzy. Jonathan Lepore, the seller, acquired the business account card, which expired in 2023, on eBay for a mere $70. He offered it alongside his sports memorabilia collection through Goldin Auctions, sharing the backstory with TMZ.

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