Judy Garland’s famous ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz have made headlines again. They were sold for a stunning $32.5 million at an auction. This amount is much higher than the expected $3 million. The auction was held by Heritage Auctions. Bidding started online and quickly escalated, with some bidders participating over the phone. For 15 minutes, they competed, pushing the price sky-high!
These iconic slippers were on display at the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, back in 2005. Sadly, they were stolen when a burglar smashed the display case. The shoes were missing for many years. Their fate remained a mystery until the FBI recovered them in 2018. The thief had thought the shoes had real rubies, but they did not. After they were found, the shoes were returned in February to Michael Shaw, the collector who had loaned them to the museum.

Only four pairs of these famous slippers are known to exist today. The auction saw over 800 people tracking the slippers online. The auction house’s webpage had nearly 43,000 views! The excitement around them was huge.
After the sale, the auctioneer announced that the previous record for a piece of entertainment memorabilia was $5.52 million. That record was for the white dress worn by Marilyn Monroe in The Seven Year Itch. This recent auction also included other items from The Wizard of Oz. For example, a hat worn by Margaret Hamilton, who played the Wicked Witch of the West, sold for $2.4 million, making the total cost for the buyer $2.93 million.
The story of The Wizard of Oz has gained new attention recently. This is due to the release of the movie Wicked, a Broadway musical that offers a new take on the Wicked Witch of the West’s character. Fans of the original story and new viewers alike are excited about this connection.
The Journey of the Ruby Slippers
These slippers have a storied past. Judy Garland wore them while filming The Wizard of Oz. The shoes symbolize more than just a movie prop; they represent a piece of American culture. The shoes are a reminder of childhood dreams and the idea that “there’s no place like home.” They are not just shoes; they are a part of history.

Over the years, there have been many pairs of ruby slippers. However, the ones sold recently are the most valuable. They are beloved by collectors and fans alike. The excitement surrounding the auction showed just how much people care about these slippers.
A Closer Look at the Auction
When the bidding started, it opened at $1.55 million. Bidders quickly jumped in, and the price soared. This fast-paced bidding was thrilling to watch. Many people were eager to see who would win the slippers.
When the auction ended, the slippers sold for $32.5 million, which includes fees. This makes them the most expensive piece of entertainment memorabilia ever sold. The auction house, Heritage Auctions, noted how incredible this result was. It shows how important movies and memorabilia are to our culture.
Other Auction Highlights
- The Wicked Witch’s hat sold for $2.4 million.
- A screen door from Dorothy’s Kansas home sold for $37,500.
- The MGM contract signed by the songwriters of “Over the Rainbow” sold for $23,125.
- Judy Garland’s “Dorothy Gale” wig, used in the first week of filming, sold for $30,000.

These prices reflect the continued interest in The Wizard of Oz. Fans still love the story and the characters. The ruby slippers are a key part of that love.
Conclusion
The sale of Judy Garland‘s ruby slippers is not just about money. It shows how much these shoes mean to people. They are a symbol of hope and magic. The auction brought together fans from all over, uniting them in their love for a classic movie. The excitement continues as the story of the ruby slippers unfolds.
As we reflect on the slippers’ journey, we remember that they are much more than a pair of shoes. They are a piece of our history, a piece of our hearts, and a reminder that dreams can come true.