New York's Hard Rock Café Hosts Thriller of an Auction

Four months after his death, the legend of Michael Jackson is still larger than life.

The King of Pop will be the centerpiece of Media Icon's Auction to be held at Hard Rock Café New York in Times Square Nov. 21. Julien's Auction, who will be overseeing the event, has collected an impressive array of items that represent some of music's greatest landmark moments.

Fans and serious collectors can bid on such historic pieces as Jackson's first white glittered glove worn during his monumental "Billie Jean" performance on 1983's Motown 25 television special ($40, 000-$60,000); a black "Bad" tour bondage outfit ($8,000-$10,000); a drawing of Charlie Chaplin done by the singer at the age of nine ($2,000-$4,000); an autographed copy of three gold Thriller singles ($600-$800), original handwritten lyrics to "Beat It" ($2000-$4000) and a costume Jackson wore at the famed Apollo Theater in 2002, his last stage performance in the U.S. ($4,000-$6,000). Bidding prices are suggested, with a portion of the proceeds going to various charities.

Martin Nolan, Executive Director at Julien's Auctions, says interest in all things MJ is at an all-time high. "Michael Jackson has a very loyal fan base worldwide," he explains. "We've just done four continents in four weeks touring the highlights of this auction. Certainly since Michael's death, while he is the King of Pop, he's become a truly legendary status who takes center stage with Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, and John Lennon as highly collectible and great investments. If you own something of Michael Jackson today, it will increase in value."

But the collection is not just limited to Jackson. At a Nov. 17 press preview, items ranging from a Beatles ' Sgt. Peppers outtake photo ($400-$600) and a signed concert scarf from Presley ($200-$400) to a signature 1983 electric blue cloud guitar once owned by Prince ($6,000-$8,000) were also on display.

Darren Julian, president and CEO of Julian's says a new generation of buyers is starting to make their presence felt. "It's interesting that young people are beginning to collect more from Western pop culture," he says. "It's huge all over the world. The newer generation who were fans of artists like Michael Jackson, Prince and Madonna are starting to collect memorabilia."

The Music Icon exhibition will be open until Nov. 21. For more info go to juliensauctions.com. --Keith Murphy

Check out our gallery of Michael Jackson collectibles from the auction here.