Michael Jackson’s white glove will take centre stage in Ireland tomorrow as some of the pop legend’s most famous belongings go on display.
The King of Pop, who died suddenly in June, wore the crystal-studded glove when he performed the Moonwalk for the first time on television 26 years ago.
It is expected to fetch half a million dollars (€331,000) when sold by Julien’s Auctions at the Hard Rock Cafe in New York next month.
The piece is the highlight of an exhibition at Newbridge Silverware Museum of Style Icons in Co Kildare.
Memorabilia from Madonna, Bob Dylan, Elvis Presley, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Aerosmith, Janis Joplin and Kurt Cobain will also be showcased.
Phil Donnelly, of Newbridge Silverware, said the more than 50 items owned by Jackson had been shipped to Ireland for the 'Once in a Lifetime Exhibition', which runs until November 5.
“This will also be a tribute to him and will give us the opportunity to pay our respects,” said Phil Donnelly.
“These pieces are particularly poignant because they were gifted to family and friends by Michael and they gave them to the auction that will raise money for charity.
“Thousands came before to see some of Michael’s most iconic items and we are already getting lots of emails and phone calls.
“The reaction has been phenomenal.”
The left-handed glove, worn at a 1983 performance of 'Billie Jean' at the Motown 25 television special, was given to Jackson’s friend Walter “Clyde” Orange, who was one of the founding members of the Commodores.
The uncut version of the 'Thriller' video, zombie costumes, a fedora hat, a 'Bad' jacket signed by the pop legend, and a letter from Lisa Marie Presley are among the items on show in Newbridge.
About 40,000 fans from all over the world visited the venue during the world exclusive preview of Jackson’s iconic stage costumes earlier this year.
Martin Nolan, of Julien’s Auctions, said family and friends of the star who had kept items for up to 30 years did not realise how valuable they were until after his death.
Items for sale include pictures and paintings the star drew at a child, a Mercedes he gave to an aunt with a picture of him driving it, and a sketch of Mickey Mouse wearing the 'Bad' jacket.
Mr Nolan said buyers would be snapping up investments, like buying a pieces of Elvis or Marilyn Monroe.
“The glove is one of the most iconic pieces there is,” said Mr Nolan.
“He wore it when he was transitioning from the Jackson 5 to his solo career.
“It is right up there with the Ruby slippers from the Wizard of Oz.”
About 80 items donated to the Music Icons auction by singer Steve Tyler will raise funds for MusiCares charity for budding musicians, added Mr Nolan.
The celebrity auction house recently sold scores of items owned by Barbara Streisand, raising $600,000 (€399,414) for her foundation.