In a tale as captivating as the silver screen classic itself, a pair of ruby slippers from the iconic 1939 musical The Wizard of Oz has resurfaced, nearly two decades after they vanished in a daring heist. The sequin-studded shoes, one of only four remaining pairs worn by Judy Garland in the film, are now the star attraction of a high-stakes online auction hosted by Heritage Auctions in Dallas.
A Glittering Legacy
The ruby slippers have long been a symbol of Hollywood magic, immortalized by Garland’s portrayal of Dorothy Gale in the beloved musical. Crafted with sequins and beads, the slippers were designed to sparkle onscreen, capturing the hearts of moviegoers worldwide.
As one of the most recognizable props in cinematic history, the ruby slippers have become coveted collectors’ items. The Smithsonian National Museum of American History proudly displays one pair, while another belongs to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
The Fateful Heist
In 2005, the pair now up for auction was on loan to the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, the actress’s hometown. But in a shocking turn of events, a brazen thief smashed through the display case and absconded with the priceless shoes.
The slippers’ disappearance became one of the biggest mysteries in movie memorabilia history.
– Museum Curator
For 13 long years, the ruby slippers’ whereabouts remained unknown. Theories swirled about their fate, with some speculating they had been destroyed, while others held out hope for their safe return.
An Unexpected Recovery
In a stunning development, the FBI announced in 2018 that they had successfully recovered the missing slippers. The news sent shockwaves through the collecting community and brought a sigh of relief to Wizard of Oz fans worldwide.
The recovery was the result of a meticulous investigation that spanned years. According to sources close to the case, the FBI tracked down the thief, Terry Jon Martin, who admitted to the crime and divulged the slippers’ location.
Martin, who was 76 at the time of his sentencing, claimed an old mob associate had convinced him the slippers were adorned with real jewels, justifying their $1 million insured value.
– Anonymous Source
A Dazzling Auction
Now, the recovered ruby slippers are taking center stage once more, this time at a highly anticipated online auction. Bidding opened on Monday and will continue until December 7th, with the current bid already soaring past $800,000.
- The slippers are being auctioned by Michael Shaw, a memorabilia collector who had originally loaned them to the Judy Garland Museum.
- The Judy Garland Museum is among the bidders, hoping to bring the slippers home to Grand Rapids.
- The museum has raised funds through its annual Judy Garland festival and received a $100,000 allocation from Minnesota lawmakers to support its bid.
As the auction unfolds, Wizard of Oz enthusiasts and collectors alike are waiting with bated breath to see where the ruby slippers will land. Will they return to the Judy Garland Museum, or will they find a new home in a private collection?
A Legacy That Endures
Regardless of the auction’s outcome, one thing is certain: the ruby slippers’ allure remains as strong as ever. They are a testament to the enduring magic of The Wizard of Oz and the power of Hollywood to create icons that transcend time.
As the slippers step into the spotlight once more, they serve as a reminder of the indelible mark they’ve left on cinema history. Their story, filled with mystery, intrigue, and a touch of Hollywood glamour, is one that will be told for generations to come.
For now, all eyes are on the auction, as Wizard of Oz fans around the world wait to see where the ruby slippers will click their heels next. One thing is for sure: wherever they land, they’ll continue to spread the magic and wonder that has made them an eternal symbol of the silver screen.
