Michael Jackson’s Iconic Rhinestone Socks from 1997 HIStory Tour Sold for $8,822 at French Auction
The socks were discovered by a backstage technician after the concert and preserved in a frame for 28 years.
Michael Jackson’s Iconic Rhinestone Socks from 1997 HIStory Tour Sold for $8,822 at French Auction
A pair of rhinestone-decorated socks worn by Michael Jackson during his 1997 HIStory World Tour in Nîmes, France, sold at auction for $8,822 (approximately Rs2.26 million or 22 lakh PKR), nearly triple the expected price of around €3,000–€4,000 ($3,400–$4,500).
The socks were discovered by a backstage technician after the concert and preserved in a frame for 28 years. Their strong connection to Jackson’s famous “Billie Jean” performance and the iconic Moonwalk elevated their collectable and emotional value.
The auction was conducted by the Nîmes-based house Interencheres, and auctioneer Aurore Illy described the socks as “an exceptional object — even a cult one for Michael Jackson fans.”
The high bidding reflected the enduring global legacy and demand for Michael Jackson memorabilia.
The socks showed signs of age with yellowed rhinestones and were once a staple of Jackson’s stage attire, famously seen in clips of him performing “Billie Jean.”
The sale exemplifies the robust market for Jackson’s artefacts, continuing a trend of high-value sales for his memorabilia, such as his glittery glove selling for $350,000 in 2009 and a fedora fetching over $80,000 in 2023.
The iconic piece of memorabilia was found by chance by a stage technician after Jackson’s performance, adding to the growing list of valuable MJ collectibles.
A Lucky Find Behind the Scenes
A backstage crew member stumbled upon the glittering sock near Jackson’s dressing room while dismantling the stage after the 1997 concert in Nice, France. The discovery was authenticated with backstage passes and employment records.
The technician carefully preserved the sock in a frame alongside his backstage credentials, ensuring the item’s provenance for future collectors.
Expert Authentication Confirms Legitimacy
Professional memorabilia authenticators verified the sock’s authenticity, noting its distinctive crystalline embellishments characteristic of Jackson’s custom stage wear.
“The crystal detailing on the top is typical of Michael’s stage costumes. In 1997, he was the only performer using such elaborate sock designs,” stated the authentication expert.
From $2,700 Opening Bid to $6,800 Sale
The bidding started at $2,700 but quickly escalated as collectors and fans competed for this unique piece of pop culture history. A mother from southern France ultimately secured the winning bid.
“When you’re passionate about something, money becomes secondary. This is a rare piece of history, and I’m thrilled to own it for myself and my sons,” the winning bidder told local media.
Growing Market for Jackson Memorabilia
This sale joins other significant Jackson memorabilia auctions, including his iconic fedora worn during the first televised moonwalk, which sold for approximately $87,000 in Paris two years ago.
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The market for authenticated Jackson performance wear continues to grow, with collectors willing to pay premium prices for pieces with documented provenance.
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