Michael Jackson’s ‘Dirty’ Sock Sells for More Than $8,000 at French Auction

Michael Jackson’s Sock Sold at Auction

A single glittery sock once worn by the late Michael Jackson during his iconic HIStory World Tour in the 1990s has sold for more than $8,000 at a French auction, proving that the King of Pop’s memorabilia continues to hold immense value among fans and collectors worldwide.

The sock, a white athletic design adorned with sparkling rhinestones, was worn by Jackson during a 1997 concert in Nice, France. Auctioneer Aurore Illy told AFP that it was discovered in an unusual way — a concert technician found the sock discarded near the pop superstar’s dressing room after his performance in Nimes, in July of that year.

Despite the passage of nearly three decades, the sock has retained its allure as a “cult object” for Jackson devotees, even though it now shows signs of age — with visible stains and yellowed rhinestones, according to images posted on the auction’s official website.

Initially valued between €3,000 and €4,000 ($3,400–$4,500), the item sparked competitive bidding and ultimately sold for €7,688 ($8,822) at the Nimes auction house. The sale formed part of a wider music memorabilia collection that included rare artifacts from major global artists.

Michael Jackson, known for his electrifying performances and groundbreaking choreography, famously wore such rhinestone socks while performing his signature hit “Billie Jean.” Fans recall that his footwear became an integral part of his stage presence — especially during spotlight moments when he’d execute his legendary moonwalk.

This is not the first time Jackson memorabilia has commanded eye-watering prices. In 2009, a Macau gaming resort paid a staggering $350,000 for the glittery glove Jackson wore during his first moonwalk at the 1983 Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever special. Similarly, a fedora hat he wore just moments before that performance sold for more than $80,000 in Paris in 2023.

Jackson died in 2009 at the age of 50 due to a fatal overdose of the anesthetic propofol. While his legacy has been clouded by allegations of child molestation — which he and his estate have consistently denied — his cultural influence and devoted global fan base remain undeniable.

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