Ruby Slippers Auction After Theft

A pair of the iconic ruby red slippers from 'The Wizard of Oz' is set to be auctioned in December, nearly two decades after they were stolen from the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. The slippers were originally purchased by collector Michael Shaw in 1970 for $2,000 from a costume designer. They were stolen in 2005 by Terry Martin, and despite a significant reward and numerous tips, they remained missing until their recovery in a sting operation by the FBI and the Grand Rapids Police Department in July 2018. During the time the slippers were missing, Shaw received an insurance payout of $800,000, but the slippers themselves were eventually recovered and are now valued at around $3.5 million. The slippers are being consigned to Heritage Auctions for sale, with the Judy Garland Museum among the potential buyers, supported by a state appropriation to raise funds for the purchase. The auction includes an international press tour and is expected to attract significant interest due to the historical and cultural significance of the slippers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.