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How much did Marilyn Monroe’s Kennedy dress sell for?
Guinness World Records lists the auction result as $4,810,000 and identifies the sale as the record for the most expensive dress sold at auction. Julien’s Auctions and Ripley’s describe the same 2016 purchase as $4.8 million; that is a rounded figure, not a different sale price. Guinness World Records, Julien’s Auctions and Ripley’s Believe It or Not! document the sale using those respective figures.
What dress was sold?
The gown was custom-made for Monroe by designer Jean Louis. She wore it while singing “Happy Birthday” to President John F. Kennedy at a Democratic Party fundraiser gala at Madison Square Garden on May 19, 1962, according to Guinness World Records. It is commonly known as the “Happy Birthday, Mr. President” dress.
Who bought the gown, and when?
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! bought the dress from Julien’s Auctions on November 17, 2016. Ripley’s identifies the gown with its exhibit collection, but its cited information does not establish where the original is currently displayed or whether visitors can see it. Check the current information for a specific attraction before planning a visit.
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- Women's Small (6-8): Chest 36″, Waist 27″, Hips 37″, Height 67″, Up to 125 Lbs.
- White Halter Dress with pleated skirt
- Fitted halter-style bodice, V-Neckline with self-fabric ties behind the neck
- Waist yoke supports circle skirt
- Skirt Length 29"
What the sale records do—and do not—establish
The auction result and buyer are supported by Julien’s, Ripley’s and Guinness World Records. The Marilyn Monroe Collection also lists the 2016 Julien’s sale at $4,800,000. These sources do not provide a complete provenance chain, so they do not establish a detailed history of the gown’s ownership before the auction.
Guinness World Records lists the gown as the most expensive dress sold at auction. Because record listings can change, treat that distinction as Guinness’s published record claim rather than a guarantee that it remains current indefinitely.
Quick Recap
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- Includes White Halter Top Dress
- Adult: XL (12-14) Chest 42" Waist 33" Hips 43" Height 68" Up to 170 Lbs.
- Halter dress with fabric ties and deep V-neckline
- Waist yoke supports circle skirt
- Skirt Length 32"
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