Most Expensive Sports Memorabilia and Celebrity Collectibles Ever Sold

 

Part I: Most Valuable Celebrity Memorabilia Ever Sold

Celebrity memorabilia can pull in millions at auction. Items tied to famous names in music, film, sports, and fashion regularly hit seven or even eight figures. These aren't just props or random collectibles. They're personal items that belonged to the icons themselves - things they wore, used, or created. From legendary guitars and rare dresses to iconic watches and sportswear, here’s a look at the most expensive celebrity items ever sold, each going for over $1.5 million.

The Ruby Slippers from The Wizard of Oz

The most expensive celebrity memorabilia ever sold is the pair of ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in The Wizard of Oz. They sold in 2024 for $32 million through Heritage Auctions. The buyer was E-Land Group. These shoes are cultural landmarks.

Babe Ruth’s World Series Jersey

In 2024, Babe Ruth's jersey from the 1932 World Series sold for $24.1 million. This is the highest-selling sports item in auction history. Heritage Auctions handled the sale. The jersey marks a key moment in baseball history and in Ruth’s legendary career.

Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona

Paul Newman's personal Rolex Daytona was auctioned off in 2017 for $17.8 million. The sale was held by Phillips Auction. This watch became one of the most famous and valuable timepieces in the world.

Michael Jordan’s 1998 NBA Finals Jersey

Michael Jordan’s game-worn jersey from the 1998 NBA Finals was auctioned in 2023 by Sotheby's. It sold for $10.1 million. This jersey is from Jordan's last championship season, often called “The Last Dance.”

Diego Maradona’s Hand of God Jersey

The jersey Diego Maradona wore during the infamous “Hand of God” goal in the 1986 World Cup was sold for $9.3 million. Sotheby’s handled the sale in 2022. The shirt is a historic piece from one of soccer’s most controversial moments.

Elizabeth Taylor’s Diamond

In 2011, a diamond once owned by Elizabeth Taylor sold for $8.8 million. Christie's ran the auction. Taylor’s jewelry collection is world famous, and this diamond was one of her most prized possessions.

Kurt Cobain’s 1959 Martin Guitar

Kurt Cobain’s 1959 Martin D-18E guitar, used during his MTV Unplugged performance, was sold in 2020 by Julien's Auctions for $6 million. It’s one of the most iconic guitars in rock history.

Babe Ruth’s Yankees Jersey (1928-1930)

Another Babe Ruth jersey from his time with the Yankees between 1928 and 1930 sold for $5.64 million. Sotheby's ran the sale in 2019. This piece adds to Ruth’s legacy as one of the most collectible figures in sports.

Marilyn Monroe’s Iconic White Dress

The white dress Marilyn Monroe wore in The Seven Year Itch sold in 2011 for $5.6 million. Profiles in History auctioned it. The scene where Monroe stands over a subway grate made the dress one of the most recognizable costumes in film.

Marlon Brando’s Rolex GMT-Master

Marlon Brando’s Rolex GMT-Master was auctioned in 2023 by Phillips Auction and fetched $5.1 million. He wore this watch in Apocalypse Now, and it became a rare and valuable piece for both film and watch collectors.

Audrey Hepburn’s My Fair Lady Gown

Audrey Hepburn’s dress from My Fair Lady sold in 2011 for $4.5 million. Profiles in History handled the auction. The dress is tied to one of her most famous roles and represents a key moment in classic Hollywood fashion.

Marilyn Monroe’s “Happy Birthday” Dress

The dress Monroe wore while singing “Happy Birthday” to President John F. Kennedy sold for $4.8 million in 2016. Julien’s Auctions managed the sale. Jim Pattison bought it. The gown is one of Monroe’s most famous outfits.

Kurt Cobain’s Blue Fender Mustang

Kurt Cobain’s blue Fender Mustang guitar sold in 2022 for $4.5 million through Julien’s Auctions. He played it in the Smells Like Teen Spirit video, making it a major artifact from the grunge era.

Elizabeth Taylor’s Mike Todd Tiara

Taylor’s tiara, a gift from Mike Todd, went for $4.2 million in 2011. Christie's sold it. The tiara was a symbol of their high-profile romance and part of Taylor’s signature look.

David Gilmour’s Black Stratocaster

David Gilmour’s “Black Strat” was auctioned by Christie’s in 2019 for $3.95 million. Jim Irsay bought it. Gilmour used the guitar for decades, including on Pink Floyd’s biggest albums.

Eddie Van Halen’s Kramer Guitars

In 2023, Sotheby’s sold guitars from Eddie Van Halen’s personal collection. The lot fetched $3.932 million. These instruments were tied directly to Van Halen’s unique playing style and sound.

Mark McGwire’s 70th Home Run Baseball

McGwire’s 70th home run ball from 1998 went for $3 million in 1999. Guernsey’s ran the sale, and Todd McFarlane was the buyer. This baseball marked a major moment in MLB history.

Margaret Hamilton’s Wicked Witch Hat

The pointed hat worn by Margaret Hamilton as the Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz sold for $2.93 million in 2024. Heritage Auctions handled the sale. The hat is a central piece from one of the most iconic film villains ever.

John Lennon’s Framus Hootenanny Guitar

In 2024, Lennon’s Framus Hootenanny guitar went for $2.85 million at Julien’s Auctions. He used it during the Beatles’ mid-60s sessions, adding to its value as a piece of music history.

John Lennon’s Gibson J-160E

This Gibson acoustic, another one of Lennon’s guitars, sold in 2014 for $2.4 million. Julien’s Auctions ran the event. An anonymous buyer took it home.

The Beatles’ Drumhead

The Beatles’ hand-painted drumhead used on the cover of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band sold in 2015 for $2.1 million. Julien’s Auctions handled the sale. Jim Irsay was the buyer.

Bob Dylan’s “Like a Rolling Stone” Manuscript

The handwritten lyrics to Bob Dylan’s Like a Rolling Stone sold for $2.045 million in 2014 at Sotheby’s. This original manuscript gives a rare glimpse into Dylan’s songwriting process.

Jerry Garcia’s Wolf Guitar

Jerry Garcia’s “Wolf” guitar was auctioned off by Guernsey’s in 2017 and brought in $1.9 million. Brian Halligan bought it. This instrument is closely tied to the Grateful Dead and Garcia’s legacy.

David Gilmour’s 1954 Fender Stratocaster

Another guitar from Gilmour’s collection sold in 2019 for $1.8 million. Christie’s ran the auction. This Stratocaster was one of the earliest of its kind.

Michael Jackson’s Thriller Jacket

The red leather jacket worn by Michael Jackson in the Thriller video sold for $1.8 million in 2011. Julien’s Auctions handled the sale, and Milton Verret was the buyer. The jacket is one of the most iconic fashion pieces in music history.

Barbara Sinatra’s Engagement Ring

Barbara Sinatra’s ring sold for $1.7 million in 2018 through Sotheby’s. The ring had sentimental and historic value tied to the life of Frank Sinatra.

Eric Clapton’s Rolex Crazy Doc

Clapton’s rare Rolex known as “Crazy Doc” went for $1.6 million in 2022. Phillips Auction handled the sale. The watch drew interest from both music and luxury collectors.

Kurt Cobain’s Sky Stang 1 Fender Mustang

Cobain’s 1993 Sky Stang 1 Fender Mustang guitar sold for $1.58 million in 2020 at Julien’s Auctions. Mitsuru Sato bought it. Cobain used this guitar in his later performances with Nirvana.

Judy Garland’s Wizard of Oz Dress

A dress Judy Garland wore in The Wizard of Oz went for $1.56 million in 2011. Turner Classic Movies auctioned it, and the buyer remained anonymous. The dress is a treasured part of film history.

Every one of these items holds a unique place in pop culture, sports, music, or film. Their prices keep rising because of the story, the person behind them, and how much they still matter today.

 

Part II: Most Expensive Sports Memorabilia Ever Sold

Sports collectibles have become one of the hottest parts of the auction world. Big-money buyers are now paying record prices for rare, game-used items tied to major moments in sports history. And those prices keep climbing. Every year, another piece of memorabilia sets a new record. It’s not just about nostalgia anymore; it’s become an investment market with serious returns.

Why Sports Collectibles Are Breaking Records

Prices have exploded in part because authentication tools have gotten better. Experts now use photo-matching, material analysis, and detailed historical data to confirm an item’s story. That means buyers trust what they’re getting, and they’re willing to pay for it. One major example is Babe Ruth’s “Called Shot” jersey. It sold for more than $24 million in 2024, and experts say part of that was because of strong proof the jersey matched what Ruth wore during that legendary 1932 World Series moment.

But it’s not just science driving the prices up. It’s also emotion. Sports create some of the most unforgettable moments in pop culture. These moments are etched into millions of people’s memories. And when you tie a one-of-a-kind item to a moment like that, the value skyrockets. That’s why sports memorabilia connects with both collectors and investors.

Baseball still leads the way, since it's the oldest major sport and has a long trail of collectible history. But basketball, soccer, boxing, and even Olympic pieces are now climbing into the top tier. High-end buyers are going beyond baseball cards and chasing jerseys, rings, and other rare game-used gear from every corner of the sports world.

According to Sotheby’s expert Brahm Wachter, what makes a piece truly valuable is the mix of two things: a rare, game-used item and a legendary moment. When you get both, the price tends to go through the roof.

Babe Ruth’s 1932 “Called Shot” Jersey - $24.1 Million

Babe Ruth is one of the most famous athletes ever. And his jersey from the 1932 World Series just became the most expensive piece of sports memorabilia in history. It sold in 2024 for $24.1 million.

This wasn’t just any jersey. It’s tied to Ruth’s legendary “Called Shot” at Wrigley Field. During a heated game against the Chicago Cubs, Ruth stepped out of the batter’s box, pointed toward center field, and then hit a 490-foot homer to dead center. It was his last World Series appearance and one of the most iconic plays in baseball history.

The jersey originally sold in 2005 for $940,000. Nineteen years later, it shattered records. Experts say it’s one of the best-known moments in sports, and having the actual jersey Ruth wore made this item priceless to collectors.

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle Baseball Card - $12.6 Million

The second most valuable sports collectible ever sold is a near-perfect 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card. It sold in 2022 for $12.6 million, more than doubling the previous record for any trading card.

Mantle is a key figure in Yankees history. He was a rookie in 1951, just as millions of Baby Boomers were becoming lifelong baseball fans. He won multiple titles, played in a golden era of the game, and became a symbol of postwar baseball greatness.

Collectors love this specific card not just because of Mantle himself, but because the card became a pop culture icon. It's rare, clean, and in near-perfect shape, which makes it one of the most sought-after sports cards ever printed. Heritage Auctions sold it, and their experts called it a "perfect storm" of value: an iconic player, a famous card, and pristine condition.

Michael Jordan’s 1998 NBA Finals Jersey - $10.1 Million

Michael Jordan’s jersey from Game 1 of the 1998 NBA Finals sold for $10.1 million in 2022. It’s one of the most expensive game-worn items ever. Jordan was at the peak of his career during this season, which ended with his sixth championship and his final MVP award. The season was featured in The Last Dance documentary, which reminded fans how dominant Jordan was. Interestingly, this jersey was worn in a game the Bulls lost, but that didn’t hurt its value. Sotheby’s handled the sale.

Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” Jersey - $9.3 Million

This jersey was worn during one of the most famous matches in soccer history. In the 1986 World Cup quarterfinals, Diego Maradona scored two legendary goals against England; one with his hand, the other a solo run that is still considered the greatest goal ever scored. The jersey sold for $9.3 million in 2022, just two years after Maradona’s death. It’s one of the most historic soccer artifacts ever auctioned. Sotheby’s ran the sale.

The Olympic Games Manifesto - $8.8 Million

This handwritten document from 1892 by Pierre de Coubertin sold for $8.8 million in 2022. Coubertin’s 14-page text laid the groundwork for the modern Olympic movement. It called for international sports to bring peace and unity across nations. He would go on to create the International Olympic Committee just two years later. The document represents the birth of the modern Olympics and is a rare piece of sports history with global significance. Sotheby’s auctioned it.

Lionel Messi’s Set of Six World Cup Jerseys - $7.8 Million

Lionel Messi wore these six jerseys during Argentina’s run to the 2022 World Cup title. He wore them during the first halves of key games, including the final and semifinals, scoring four goals along the way. These shirts capture the peak of Messi’s international career. Argentina hadn’t won since 1986, when Maradona led the team. The shirts sold in December 2023 for $7.8 million at Sotheby’s. They were put up by a firm partly backed by billionaire Steve Cohen.

Honus Wagner T-206 Baseball Card - $7.25 Million

This card used to hold the title of the most valuable sports collectible. Printed in 1911, the Honus Wagner T-206 card is one of the rarest in the world. Only around 50 still exist. Wagner himself had the card pulled from circulation because it advertised cigarettes. That backstory, paired with the card’s rarity, made it a prized item for collectors. One of the cleanest versions was sold privately for $7.25 million in 2022 through Goldin Auctions.

Babe Ruth’s 1914 Rookie Card - $7.2 Million

This card shows a young Babe Ruth during his only season with the Baltimore Orioles, before he ever played for the Yankees or Red Sox. At the time, the Orioles were still a minor league team. The card is incredibly rare; probably only ten exist. It sold for $7.2 million in 2023 through Robert Edward Auctions. Two years earlier, shares in the card had been sold at a valuation of $6 million, showing how fast the value climbed.

Kobe Bryant’s Rookie Jersey - $7 Million

Kobe Bryant’s rookie jersey from the 1996 to 1997 season went for $7 million in 2025. He wore it in his debut and in multiple games that season. While his rookie year was modest, the jersey marks the beginning of a Hall of Fame career. Bryant later became the Lakers’ all-time top scorer and won five NBA championships. The sale came five years after his death in a helicopter crash, which made the jersey even more meaningful to fans and collectors. Sotheby’s ran the auction.

Muhammad Ali’s “Rumble in the Jungle” Title Belt - $6.2 Million

Muhammad Ali’s belt from his 1974 fight with George Foreman sold for $6.2 million in 2022. This was the famous “Rumble in the Jungle” in Zaire. Ali, the underdog, used his rope-a-dope tactic to wear down Foreman and scored a knockout in the eighth round. It was one of the most important wins in Ali’s career and cemented his place in boxing history. The belt was bought by NFL team owner Jim Irsay in a heated Heritage Auctions sale.

 

Part III: Most Expensive Collectibles Ever Sold

Not all collectibles are created equal. Most coins, stamps, cards, and comics won’t ever be worth much more than the paper or metal they’re made from. But rare, high-grade examples with historical or pop culture value can be worth millions. These aren’t just keepsakes. They’re top-tier investment assets, with buyers willing to pay record-breaking sums.

Amazing Fantasy No. 15 - First Appearance of Spider-Man

In 2021, a copy of Amazing Fantasy No. 15 sold for $3.6 million. It was the first comic to feature Spider-Man and the final issue of the short-lived Amazing Fantasy series. Only four copies are known to exist in CGC 9.6 condition. No better versions have surfaced. For years, Action Comics No. 1 held the title of the most expensive comic book ever, but Spider-Man took the crown with this sale. It was a major moment in comic book collecting.

Superman No. 1 - The First Solo Superhero Comic

Just one year later, Superman No. 1 raised the bar again. In 2022, a copy graded 8.0 Universal by CGC sold for $5.3 million in a private deal. Released in 1939, this was the first comic book dedicated to a single superhero. It was a major milestone for DC Comics and for the entire comic book industry. This issue put Superman back on top and proved how serious the market had become.

Stephen Curry 1-of-1 Rookie Card - Autographed NBA History

In 2021, a rare one-of-a-kind Steph Curry rookie card sold for $5.9 million. It was signed and dated, making it a truly unique item. The card was bought by Alt Funds, which also owns a $5.2 million LeBron James card. Alt’s entire trading card collection is valued at $50 million and includes about 10,000 cards in storage. Curry’s sale broke the previous record and highlighted the growing demand for modern sports collectibles.

Honus Wagner T206 Baseball Card - The Holy Grail of Cards

The 1909-1911 T206 Honus Wagner card is widely considered the most famous and valuable baseball card of all time. Fewer than 200 were printed, and even fewer survived. Wagner was one of the first Hall of Famers and refused to allow his image to be used on cigarette cards. Some say it was about money. Others say he didn’t want to promote tobacco to kids. Either way, his decision made the card incredibly rare. One copy sold for $6.6 million in 2021. Another sold for $7.25 million in 2022, setting a new world record.

1787 Brasher Doubloon - Early American Gold Coin

In 2021, a Brasher Doubloon sold for $9.36 million. Minted in 1787, it was part of the first privately made gold coins in early America. Only seven are known to exist today. This particular coin was in Mint State 65 condition, the best of them all. It features the stamped initials of Ephraim Brasher, a New York goldsmith. The coin was meant to compete with the Spanish Doubloon and represents an important part of early U.S. monetary history.

1856 British Guiana One-Cent Magenta - Rarest Stamp in the World

The British Guiana One-Cent Magenta stamp is one of a kind. It was printed in 1856 in a British colony now known as Guyana. Only one example is known to exist. Over the years, it’s broken records multiple times. In 2014, it sold for $9.48 million. In 2021, it changed hands again at a Sotheby’s auction for $8.31 million, which was slightly less than the last sale. Even so, it remains the rarest and most valuable stamp in the world. Its long periods of private ownership and brief public showings have only increased its mystique.

Mauritius ‘Post Office’ Stamp - Colonial-Era Rarity

One of the world’s most valuable stamps came out of Mauritius, a former British colony near Madagascar. In 1847, the island printed a set of 1,000 stamps: 500 in red and 500 in blue - all with the label “Post Office.” That phrase was changed to “Post Paid” in later issues, making the original run much rarer. Only 27 of those originals are known to still exist. Even back in the 1970s, top-condition versions were going for over $1 million. In 2021, one of the finest copies sold for $9.6 million, making it one of the most expensive stamps ever sold.

1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar - First of Its Kind

The Flowing Hair silver dollar from 1794 checks every box for serious coin collectors. It’s old, rare, in great shape, and loaded with historical value. This was the first silver dollar ever struck by the U.S. Mint. Experts believe only about 140 from the original batch still exist today. One specimen-grade example sold for $10 million in 2013, then broke its own record in 2022 by selling for $12 million. It likely passed through the hands of key historical figures like George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and Thomas Jefferson, who all played a role in launching the U.S. Mint.

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle Card No. 311 - Crown Jewel of Baseball Cards

In August 2022, the most pristine Mickey Mantle rookie card ever seen sold for $12.6 million. Graded at Mint+ 9.5, the 1952 Topps No. 311 card crushed every previous record. That same month, the famous Honus Wagner card topped $7 million, but Mantle’s card more than doubled it. No other piece of sports memorabilia (card, jersey, or gear) has ever sold for more. This card now holds the title as the most expensive sports collectible of all time.

1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle - The $18.9 Million Gold Coin

The most expensive coin ever sold is the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle. During the Great Depression, President Franklin Roosevelt ordered all gold coins and bars turned over to the government. Most were melted down and never seen again. But one Double Eagle survived. It was never supposed to leave the U.S. Mint, but it did, and today, it’s the only one that can legally be owned by a private collector. In 2021, that coin sold for $18.9 million. No other coin or collectible has come close to matching its price. It’s the rarest of the rare and the top of the market.

 

Part IV: The Most Expensive Movie Props Ever Auctioned

Movie props aren’t just set pieces. They’re part of film history. Some end up in museums. Others land in private collections. But the rarest ones, especially from major Hollywood hits, sell for massive prices when they hit the auction block. Fans and collectors are always waiting for a chance to own a piece of the screen. Here’s a look at the most expensive movie props ever sold.

Aragorn’s Sword from The Return of the King

In The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, Viggo Mortensen played Aragorn. His sword, Andúril, became a key symbol in the story. The same sword sold in 2014 for $437,000. It came from the personal collection of Sir Christopher Lee. Master swordsmith Peter Lyon made the blade. His work is also part of the Royal Armoury in the UK. The sword includes Elvish etchings inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien’s writing. One line says: “I am Andúril, who was once Narsil, sword of Elendil. The slaves of Mordor shall flee from me.” Another reads: “Narsil is my name, a mighty sword. Telchar made me in Nogrod.” This sword isn’t just a weapon. It’s a detailed piece of fantasy lore.

Darth Vader’s Helmet and Mask from The Empire Strikes Back

In The Empire Strikes Back, the fiberglass helmet and mask worn by David Prowse as Darth Vader sold for $898,000. The estimate had been around $250,000 to $450,000. But one anonymous buyer went far above that to secure the piece. This wasn’t just any prop. It was the real helmet from one of the most iconic villains in film history. More than 40 years after Star Wars began, fans still pay top dollar for anything tied to the series. Vader’s mask remains one of the most recognizable items in science fiction.

Julie Andrews’ Costumes from The Sound of Music

In 2013, a group of outfits worn by Julie Andrews in The Sound of Music sold for $1.56 million. The auction included the brown dress from the “Do-Re-Mi” scene, the yellow honeymoon outfit, and a purple wool cape. The lot also came with seven school uniforms worn by the Von Trapp children, plus the jacket worn by Kurt in “So Long, Farewell.” Experts expected the collection to go for $800,000 to $1.2 million, but it ended up selling for much more. These pieces gave fans a chance to own part of a classic musical.

Sam’s Piano from Casablanca

The small piano Dooley Wilson played in Casablanca was sold in 2014 by Bonhams for $3.4 million. Wilson’s character Sam performed “As Time Goes By” on that very piano. The film came out in 1942 and is still seen as one of the greatest of all time. This piano wasn’t just furniture. It was a major part of a key scene and a symbol of love and memory. Its sale price shows just how much weight one single prop can carry when the movie behind it has a lasting impact.

Marilyn Monroe’s White Dress from The Seven Year Itch

In 1955’s The Seven Year Itch, Marilyn Monroe wore a white halter dress that became one of the most iconic outfits in movie history. The subway grate scene is unforgettable. Even people who’ve never seen the film know the moment. In 2011, that same dress sold for $4.6 million. Debbie Reynolds owned it and put it up for auction. It had been expected to sell for about $2 million, but it ended up going for more than double. Monroe’s image, and that scene in particular, left a permanent mark on pop culture.

Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers from The Wizard of Oz

The most expensive movie prop ever sold is the final known pair of ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in The Wizard of Oz. The auction took place on December 7, 2024. Three other pairs had already been sold in the past for around $2 million each. But this fourth pair had a dramatic backstory. They were stolen in 2005 and only recovered in 2018. Add in the buzz from the recent Wicked film, and it’s no surprise the sale price shot up. These slippers sold for a record-breaking $28 million. That makes them the most valuable piece of movie memorabilia ever sold.

 

Part V: Most Valuable Records Ever Sold

Some records are worth far more than their original sticker price. We’re not just talking about rare pressings or signed covers. We're talking about records that sold for hundreds of thousands, even millions. These records pulled those prices either because of who made them, how rare they are, or the stories behind them. Here's a breakdown of the most expensive vinyl, CDs, and acetates ever sold, based on real auction prices.

Wu-Tang Clan's Once Upon a Time in Shaolin

This is the rarest album ever made. Only one copy exists. Wu-Tang Clan sold it through Paddle8 in 2015 for $2 million. Hedge fund manager Martin Shkreli bought it. In 2021, the US government seized the album from Shkreli and sold it again for $4 million. The buyer was PleasrDAO, a crypto collective. This makes it the most expensive music recording ever sold.

Bob Dylan’s Blowin’ in the Wind One-Off Recording

In 2022, a one-of-a-kind version of Blowin’ in the Wind by Bob Dylan sold for $1.8 million. This wasn't a normal record. It was a unique pressing made using a special technique. Only one was made and auctioned, making it extremely valuable.

The Beatles’ White Album - Ringo Starr’s Copy

Ringo Starr owned the first-ever pressed copy of The Beatles (commonly called The White Album), marked No. 0000001. In December 2015, it sold for $790,000. This is the most anyone has ever paid for a commercially released album.

The Quarrymen - That’ll Be the Day / In Spite of All the Danger

Before the Beatles, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison were in a group called The Quarrymen. They recorded a song in 1958, and only one acetate was made. Paul McCartney owns it. In 2012, Record Collector listed its value at £200,000. In 1981, McCartney made 25 reissues of the song on two different formats. Those reissues can sell for over £10,000 each.

Elvis Presley’s My Happiness Acetate

In 2015, Jack White bought Elvis Presley’s very first recording, a 1953 acetate of My Happiness, for $300,000. White later reissued it on Record Store Day that year through Third Man Records.

Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band - Signed by All Four Beatles

In 2013, a fully signed copy of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band sold for $290,500. This is one of the most famous albums in history, and all four Beatles signed this particular LP. That kind of complete signature set is extremely rare.

John Lennon and Yoko Ono - Double Fantasy

A copy of Double Fantasy signed by John Lennon just five hours before he was murdered sold in 1999 for $150,000. The tragic timing made this a historic item tied directly to Lennon’s final moments.

Frank Wilson - Do I Love You (Indeed I Do)

This Northern soul classic is one of the rarest 45s ever pressed. Only two copies are known to exist. In 2020, one of them sold for over £100,000. Northern soul fans are known to pay big for rare, high-energy American soul singles from the 1960s.

The Beatles - Yesterday and Today “Butcher” Cover

This 1966 album is famous for its banned “butcher” cover. A sealed, mint stereo “first state” copy sold for $125,000 in 2016. Even unsealed mint versions regularly sell for over $15,000. Depending on the condition and version, these albums can go anywhere from $150 to $10,000 or more.

The Quarrymen’s Live Tape

A live recording of The Quarrymen sold for £78,500. It captures the earliest sounds of what would later become The Beatles. Other rare tapes connected to the Beatles have also brought in big money.

The Silver Beatles’ Decca Audition Tape

Before they were signed, the Beatles auditioned for Decca. That tape fetched £35,000 at auction. In 2008, a different recording of John Lennon singing at a party in 1973 sold for $30,000 through Bonhams.

The Beatles - Till There Was You Acetate

A 10-inch acetate of Till There Was You sold in March 2016 for £77,500. This is another early Beatles recording that gives collectors a glimpse into the group’s rise before they became a global phenomenon.

Mick Jagger and Keith Richards Early Tape

The earliest known recording of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards rehearsing together sold for £50,250. This tape is one of the oldest surviving pieces from the start of the Rolling Stones' career.

Jimi Hendrix’s 1968 Woburn Festival Tapes

Live recordings of The Jimi Hendrix Experience performing at the 1968 Woburn Music Festival were sold through Christie’s for £48,050. These tapes captured one of Hendrix’s lesser-documented shows, making them a rare slice of rock history.

The Beatles’ “Love Me Do” One-Sided Acetate

A one-off acetate of Love Me Do, featuring an unedited version with a count-in, is the only known copy of its kind. It was estimated to be worth between $50,000 and $100,000. Its unique version and rarity push its value far above standard Beatles releases.

David Bowie’s First Demo Tape with The Konrads

In 2018, Omega Auctions sold David Bowie’s earliest demo, recorded with his first band, The Konrads. It fetched £39,360. This was long before he became a global icon, and the tape offers a raw look at Bowie’s beginnings.

Michael Jackson’s “What More Can I Give” Studio CD

An unreleased studio reference CD of Michael Jackson’s What More Can I Give sold for $50,000 on eBay in 2015. The song, tied to charity work and unreleased plans, holds historical value for Jackson fans and collectors.

Long Cleve Reed & Little Harvey Hull - “Original Stack O’Lee Blues”

This 1927 78 rpm blues record is one of the rarest in American music history. Only one known copy exists, owned by collector Joe Bussard. A $50,000 offer was once made for it. Its historical importance and extreme rarity keep it near the top of collectors’ lists.

Scaramanga Silk - “Choose Your Weapon”

In one of the most surprising vinyl sales ever, a copy of Choose Your Weapon by Scaramanga Silk sold for $41,095 on Discogs. It’s not widely known, but its rarity and mystery boosted its demand.

Beatles’ Please Please Me Acetate on Vee-Jay

An acetate pressing of Please Please Me from Vee-Jay Records in the US, dated 1963, reportedly had a £30,000-plus offer refused. Its rarity, combined with the unusual pressing, makes it a high-ticket Beatles item.

David A. Stewart Test 78 from 1965

In April 2015, the Rare Record Price Guide reported that a David A. Stewart test pressing from 1965 was valued at £30,000. This obscure record became a hidden gem for collectors of rare UK pressings.

Joseph Beuys’ Reel-to-Reel Limited Edition

In 1969, avant-garde artist Joseph Beuys released Ja Ja Ja Nee Nee Nee as a 100-copy reel-to-reel tape. One of these rare editions has been valued at over £30,000. It’s a piece of both music and art history.

Aphex Twin’s Caustic Window Test Pressing

A rare test pressing of Aphex Twin’s Caustic Window album sold for $46,300 on eBay in 2014. The buyer was Markus Persson, creator of Minecraft. Only a few physical copies were ever made.

Dark’s Round the Edges LP

A color gatefold pressing of Round the Edges, a prog rock album by the band Dark, sold for £27,000. According to Record Collector, this is one of the highest sales for an obscure progressive rock record.

Pink Floyd’s “King Bee” / “Lucy Leave” Acetate

An acetate of Pink Floyd’s early tracks King Bee and Lucy Leave has been valued at £25,000. This pressing features some of their earliest work before they broke into mainstream success.

Tommy Johnson - “Alcohol and Jake Blues” 78 rpm

This rare 78 rpm by blues musician Tommy Johnson sold for $37,100 on eBay in 2013. Records like these are highly sought after for both their musical and historical value in pre-war blues collecting.

The Beatles’ Please Please Me Stereo LP

A stereo version of Please Please Me with the black and gold Parlophone label sold in 2009 for £22,322. These early pressings are rare and usually found in poor condition, making mint ones valuable.

Bob Dylan’s Freewheelin’ Album With Deleted Tracks

A stereo copy of The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan that featured four tracks later pulled from all future releases sold for $35,000. This specific copy belonged to Dylan’s ex-girlfriend Suze Rotolo and had her handwritten notes on the tracklist.

El Peyote Asesino - Terraja

The second album from Uruguayan band El Peyote Asesino, Terraja, became a hard-to-find item after the band broke up in 1999. Since its release under Universal Music Group Uruguay, it has become extremely scarce, especially in physical form.

Jean-Michel Jarre - Music for Supermarkets

Only one copy of Music for Supermarkets was ever made. It was sold for 36,000 francs in 1983, which was around $14,000 at the time. By 2016 value, that would equal over $33,500. The album was then destroyed publicly, except for the one surviving copy.

Tony Sheridan and The Beat Brothers - “My Bonnie”

A 1962 stock copy of My Bonnie by Tony Sheridan and The Beat Brothers (with The Beatles as backing band) sold for $30,000 through Heritage Auctions. Early Beatles connections always push up prices.

The Beatles - “Can’t Buy Me Love” Yellow and Black Vinyl

Another Beatles rarity, a 7-inch copy of Can’t Buy Me Love on Capitol Records, pressed in black and yellow vinyl, was sold for $27,500 through Heritage Auctions.

Prince - The Black Album

Prince’s infamous Black Album was pulled from shelves right before release. Copies are incredibly rare. One untitled copy sold on Discogs in June 2018 for $27,500, making it one of the most expensive records connected to Prince.

 

Part VI: Most Expensive Celebrity Photos Ever Sold

Celebrity photos can bring in millions, especially when they're exclusive. Magazines compete for the first shot of a newborn, a wedding, or a major life moment. These deals usually involve big paydays for the stars or their families, and the fees can be shocking. Here’s a look at the priciest celebrity photographs ever published.

Knox and Vivienne Jolie-Pitt’s Baby Debut

In 2008, People and Hello! paid a combined $15 million for the first photos of Knox Leon and Vivienne Marcheline, the twins of Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt. That made it the highest-paid photo deal ever. The photos ran in August and were part of a wide global rollout.

Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony’s Twins

The first baby pictures of Emme Maribel Muñiz and Maximilian David were published by People in March 2008. The magazine reportedly paid $6 million. These were the first photos of the twins born to Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony.

Shiloh Jolie-Pitt’s First Photo Spread

Back in June 2006, People paid around $4.1 million for exclusive baby photos of Shiloh Nouvel Jolie-Pitt. Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt donated the money to charity, but the photo rights broke records at the time.

Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher’s Wedding

In October 2005, OK! magazine shelled out $3 million for wedding photos of Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher. The pair were one of the most talked-about celebrity couples at the time, and the exclusive deal drew major attention.

Matthew McConaughey’s Son, Levi Alves

When Levi Alves McConaughey was born in 2008, OK! paid $3 million for the baby’s first official photos. This was one of the top deals of that year, published in August.

Eva Longoria and Tony Parker’s Wedding Photos

OK! also secured the rights to Eva Longoria and Tony Parker’s wedding photos in July 2007. The reported price was $2 million. Their wedding in France attracted heavy media interest worldwide.

Dannielynn and Larry Birkhead Post-Paternity Case

In April 2007, after a high-profile paternity case, OK! paid $2 million for the first photos of Larry Birkhead with his daughter Dannielynn. The case had drawn international headlines, and the photos were widely circulated.

Pax Thien Jolie-Pitt’s First Post-Adoption Photos

In March 2007, People paid $2 million to publish the first pictures of Pax Thien Jolie-Pitt after Angelina Jolie adopted him. These photos showed Jolie with her newly expanded family.

Prince Jackson’s Baby Photos

In March 1997, National Enquirer paid $2 million for the first baby photos of Michael Jackson’s son, Prince Jackson. This was one of the earliest examples of a celebrity child photo fetching such a large sum.

Sabrina Sakaë Mottola’s Baby Pics

The Spanish magazine ¡Hola! paid $2 million in November 2007 for the first baby photos of Sabrina Sakaë Mottola, the daughter of singer Thalía and music executive Tommy Mottola.

Max Liron Bratman’s First Photos

People reportedly paid $1.5 million in February 2008 for photos of Max Liron Bratman, the son of Christina Aguilera. These pictures came shortly after his birth.

Honor Marie Warren’s Baby Pics

In July 2008, OK! magazine paid another $1.5 million for exclusive photos of Honor Marie Warren, the daughter of Jessica Alba and Cash Warren. The public had high interest in the couple’s first child.

The Beckhams’ Wedding Spread

In July 1999, OK! paid £1 million for exclusive rights to David and Victoria Beckham’s wedding photos. At the time, this was one of the biggest deals ever for celebrity wedding coverage.

Elizabeth Taylor and Larry Fortensky Wedding

In October 1991, People paid $1 million for the exclusive wedding photos of Elizabeth Taylor and Larry Fortensky. The wedding took place at Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch, adding to the event’s buzz.

Anna Nicole Smith and Howard K. Stern’s Wedding Pics

People also paid $1 million for wedding photos of Anna Nicole Smith and Howard K. Stern in September 2006. The photos were published soon after a string of personal tragedies surrounding Smith.

Maddie Briann Aldridge’s Baby Photos

In July 2008, OK! paid $1 million for the first photos of Maddie Briann Aldridge, the daughter of Jamie Lynn Spears. Her pregnancy at a young age had already drawn intense public focus.

Harlow Winter Kate Madden’s Debut Photos

In February 2008, People paid $1 million for the first photos of Harlow Winter Kate Madden, daughter of Nicole Richie and Joel Madden. The images were part of a large feature on Richie’s new role as a mother.

Kingston Rossdale’s Baby Photos

In June 2006, OK! paid $575,000 for the baby photos of Kingston James McGregor Rossdale, the son of Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale. At the time, the couple was a music power duo.

Pregnancy Photos of Angelina Jolie

In January 2006, People paid $500,000 for the first clear photos of a visibly pregnant Angelina Jolie. Interest around her and Brad Pitt was at an all-time high.

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie as a Couple

In April 2005, Us Weekly paid $500,000 for early couple photos of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. These came just after Pitt’s split from Jennifer Aniston, and the images fueled the media firestorm.

Sean Preston Federline’s First Photos

In November 2005, People paid $500,000 for the baby photos of Sean Preston Federline, the son of Britney Spears and Kevin Federline. Spears was one of the most covered celebrities of the time.

Last Known Photo of Daniel Smith

In September 2006, In Touch reportedly paid $400,000 for what became the final photo of Daniel Smith, the son of Anna Nicole Smith. He died shortly after, adding tragedy to the already emotional story.

Matthew Alejandro Mottola’s Baby Pics

In September 2011, ¡Hola! published the first photos of Matthew Alejandro Mottola, son of Thalía and Tommy Mottola. The magazine reportedly paid $300,000 for the rights.