Michael Jackson’s single sock sells for $8,800 in France

A single, glittery sock once worn by the late “King of Pop” Michael Jackson sold for 7,688 euros (approximately $8,822) at an auction in Nimes, France, on Wednesday, July 30, 2025.

The used, off-white sock, adorned with rhinestones, was discovered by a technician near Jackson’s dressing room after a concert in Nimes in July 1997, part of his “HIStory World Tour.”

These distinctive white athletic socks were famously worn by Jackson, notably during performances of his hit “Billie Jean.”

According to auctioneer Aurore Illy, the item, despite being covered in stains and having yellowed rhinestones due to age, is considered an “exceptional object” and “even a cult one for Michael Jackson fans.”

The sock had an initial valuation of 3,000 to 4,000 euros ($3,400-$4,500), but ultimately fetched more than double its lower estimate.

This sale adds to the extensive list of Michael Jackson memorabilia that continues to command high prices at auction. In 2009, a glittery glove worn by Jackson during his first “moonwalk” performance in 1983 sold for $350,000 to a Macau gaming resort. More recently, in 2023, a hat he wore just before that iconic performance fetched over $80,000 in Paris.

Michael Jackson passed away in 2009 at the age of 50 from a fatal overdose. Despite child molestation accusations during his lifetime and after his death—which he and his estate have consistently denied—he maintains a massive and dedicated global fanbase