Ruby slippers from 'The Wizard of Oz' are for sale nearly 2 decades after they were stolen

The ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in 'The Wizard of Oz' are now available for auction after being stolen nearly two decades ago. These iconic shoes were taken from the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, in 2005 and remained missing until their recovery by the FBI in 2018. Heritage Auctions in Dallas is conducting the online auction, which started recently and will conclude on December 7, 2024. This auction has attracted interest from various collectors, including the museum itself, which has allocated funds to secure the historic footwear. The slippers are one of only four surviving pairs, making them highly sought after among movie memorabilia enthusiasts.

The theft and recovery of the slippers underscore significant issues related to the protection of cultural artifacts. The shoes, adorned with sequins and beads, were initially believed to be embellished with real jewels, which contributed to the thief's interest. This case serves as a reminder of the enduring fascination with classic films and their artifacts, along with the legal and ethical complexities surrounding such valuable collectibles.