Judy Garland’s Ruby Slippers From The Wizard of Oz sold for $32.5 Million

The iconic ruby slippers Judy Garland wore in The Wizard of Oz have once again made history.

After being stolen from a Minnesota museum 20 years ago, the legendary shoes fetched an astonishing $28 million at an auction on December 7. With auction fees included, the final price soared to $32.5 million, shattering expectations and setting a new record for the most valuable piece of movie memorabilia ever sold.

Related: A Second Man Has Been Charged In Connection With The Theft of Wizard of Oz Slippers

A Fierce Bidding Battle for Hollywood History

The auction, held by Heritage Auctions, started with a modest opening bid of $1.55 million. From there, a bidding war broke out among 25 eager participants. In the end, a phone bidder claimed the prized footwear in a dramatic final moment. The sale price was nearly 11 times higher than the original pre-auction estimate of $3 million, underscoring the enduring cultural significance of the slippers.

A Walk Down the Yellow Brick Road of Memorabilia

While the ruby slippers were the crown jewel of the auction, other Wizard of Oz treasures also turned heads. A hat worn by the Wicked Witch of the West sold for over $2 million, and Dorothy’s wig from the first week of filming went for $30,000.

Even Dorothy’s humble Kansas roots got some love — the screen door from her family’s farmhouse fetched $37,500. Meanwhile, the MGM contract signed by the songwriters of the iconic "Over the Rainbow" was sold for $23,125.

The ruby slippers continue to captivate fans and collectors alike, standing as a glittering reminder of the magic of classic cinema. Whether you’re a film buff or just a fan of iconic fashion, this auction proves that some pieces of Hollywood history are truly priceless.