By Fasuyi Tolulope Samuel
A single glittery sock once worn by the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, has sold for over $8,000 at an auction in France.
According to auctioneer Aurore Illy, the sock was worn by Jackson during a 1997 concert in the southern French city of Nimes, as part of his iconic “HIStory World Tour.”
The sock, adorned with rhinestones, was discovered discarded near the pop legend’s dressing room by a technician after the performance.
“It really is an exceptional object — even a cult one for Michael Jackson fans,” Illy said, emphasizing its uniqueness and sentimental value to collectors.
The sock, initially expected to sell for between €3,000 and €4,000 (approximately $3,400 to $4,500), exceeded expectations and was eventually sold for €7,688 ($8,822) at the Nimes auction house.
Images shared on the auction site show the sock stained and aged, with once-sparkling rhinestones now yellowed. Despite its worn condition, its historical and cultural value remains significant, particularly as Jackson was seen wearing such socks in performances of his hit “Billie Jean.”
This isn’t the first time memorabilia from the late superstar has attracted high bids. In 2009, a glittery glove worn during his first-ever “moonwalk” performance in 1983 was purchased by a Macau gaming resort for $350,000.
More recently, in 2023, a hat he wore just before that same historic performance was sold in Paris for over $80,000. Michael Jackson, who passed away in 2009 at the age of 50 due to a fatal overdose, continues to leave a lasting legacy.
His performance outfits, including accessories like this sock, remain prized possessions among fans and collectors worldwide. This sale highlights not only the enduring impact of Jackson’s artistry but also the remarkable value placed on iconic pieces of pop culture history.
