Michael Jackson’s dirty sock from 1997 concert sells for $8,822 at auction

A rhinestone-covered sock worn by Michael Jackson in 1997 sold for $8,822 despite being yellowed and stained.

A rhinestone-covered sock once worn by Michael Jackson during a 1997 concert on his HIStory World Tour has fetched $8,822 at a French auction, far surpassing its $3,400–$4,500 estimate.

The pop icon wore the off-white, glittery sock during a performance in Nîmes, France. After the show, a stage technician discovered it discarded near Jackson’s dressing room. The sock, showing signs of age with yellowing and dulled rhinestones, was preserved in a display frame alongside the technician’s backstage pass.

Michael Jackson’s old dirty sock has sold for over $8,000 at an auction in France pic.twitter.com/bzy2z5UniT

— Xtra'O' (@DigitalXtraO) July 30, 2025

Auctioned through the Nîmes-based house Interencheres, the sock quickly drew global attention from collectors and fans. French auctioneer Aurore Illy described the item as “an exceptional object — even a cult one for Michael Jackson fans.”

Jackson famously wore sparkly socks during his performance of “Billie Jean,” and they became a signature part of his iconic stage presence. The 1997 sock’s authenticity and connection to the HIStory tour elevated its appeal, despite visible signs of wear.

This isn’t the first time Michael Jackson memorabilia has attracted high bids. In 2009, a Macau casino paid $350,000 for the glove he wore during his first moonwalk in 1983.

While it remains unclear what the aged sock smells like — or whether it grants the ability to moonwalk — its new owner now owns a glittering piece of pop history.

Michael Jackson collectibles continue to command strong demand, proving the King of Pop’s legacy remains as powerful as ever.