Michael Jackson’s Moonwalking Socks Are Expected To Sell for More Than $1 Million

Michael Jackson‘s moonwalking socks are on the auction block — and they’re expected to fetch more than $1 million.

The crystal-encrusted socks were worn by Jackson the first time he performed his now-iconic moonwalk. The dance move made its debut in 1983, when Jackson performed “Billie Jean” as part of a “Motown 25” television special.

The socks come from the personal collection of Jackson’s manager, Frank DiLeo, and were custom-designed by Bill Whitten. The winning bidder will also receive a letter from the pop star himself, written to DiLeo as a thanks for “keeping on his toes” during the 1984 Victory Tour.

Michael Jackson's Swarovski crystal gemmed stage worn socks'Music Icons' Memorabilia Exhibition and Auction at Julien's Auctions, New York, America - 17 Nov 2009A rhinestone-studded glove worn by Michael Jackson during his first ever Moonwalk in 1983 is set to go under the hammer.The leather glove has gone on show in New York, along with a host of other memorabilia belonging to the King of Pop, ahead of being sold. Over 350 lots will be up for auction during the music legend sale at the Hard Rock Cafe in New York's Times Square. As well as the glove, Jackson fans can also choose from around 80 lots, including portraits of Charlie Chaplin drawn by Jackson when he was just nine years old and zombie costumes and the mold used to make his fangs for the "Thriller" video. According to Darren Julien of Julien's Auction Jackson's glove has already prompted excitement and could fetch more than the estimated $40,000-60,000. Other non-Jackson related items to be offered at the sale include a scarf signed by Elvis Presley and guitars signed by the likes of Paul McCartney and AC/DC.
Michael Jackson crystal-adorned moonwalking socks.
CREDIT: Charles Sykes/Shutterstock

The auction will be live on Gottahaverockandroll.com Nov. 13-22. Other items included are a prop sign used in the “Moonwalker” film, a Destiny Tour stage outfit and the “Thriller” platinum record.

The King of Pop died in 2009 at age 50. While there were many big moments in his career, the moonwalk is among the most memorable.

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A fan paid more than $10,000 in 2018 for the Florsheim penny loafers Jackson wore to do his moonwalk, but those shoes were apparently worn only for a rehearsal, not for the televised “Billie Jean” performance.

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