Stolen Ruby Slippers Resurface at Auction After FBI Sting and Decades of Mystery

Hollywood’s most iconic footwear, Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers from The Wizard of Oz, are making headlines again—this time for hitting the auction block at Heritage Auctions. Currently commanding a staggering $1.15 million bid, this pair’s journey has been anything but straightforward, involving theft, FBI stings, and decades of intrigue.

These Ruby Slippers, one of only four screen-worn pairs known to exist, disappeared in 2005 while on display at the Judy Garland Museum in Minnesota. Thieves, believing the shoes were made of real rubies, stole them during a 10-week Judy Garland Festival exhibit. They vanished without a trace—until 2017, when an anonymous tip led the FBI to recover them in a daring sting operation.

The man behind the heist, Terry Martin, reportedly realized too late that the “rubies” were just sequins and abandoned the shoes. Court documents revealed Martin stole the slippers thinking he’d scored a gem-studded jackpot, but his disappointment ended with an indictment for major artwork theft.

The stolen slippers, known as the “Shaw slippers,” have an extraordinary backstory. These aren’t just mismatched shoes; they’re “mismatched twins.” Decades ago, Hollywood costume designer Kent Warner inadvertently swapped original pairs when redistributing the slippers. Upon recovery, the FBI authenticated them alongside the Smithsonian’s pair, discovering they were part of a mis-paired set.

Adding to their legendary status, the left Shaw slipper played a starring role on screen, appearing in Dorothy’s pivotal moments, including the iconic heel-clicking scene that sent her home.

Where Are the Other Ruby Slippers?

Here’s where the famous pairs of Ruby Slippers are today:

• Shaw Slippers: Up for auction and recently authenticated by the Smithsonian.
• Smithsonian Pair: On display in the National Museum of American History.
• Warner’s Private Pair: Now at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles.
• Contest Winner’s Pair: Safely kept in a private collection.

As for the mismatched “Arabian” test pair? They’re an entirely different chapter in this glittering saga.

The Ruby Slippers may have started their journey on Dorothy’s feet in Oz, but their off-screen saga proves there’s no place like home—especially when it’s an auction house with a multimillion-dollar bid. From MGM props to Hollywood heists and a return to the limelight, this iconic pair continues to enchant collectors and fans alike.

What do you think about the fascinating history of the Ruby Slippers? Would you bid on these legendary shoes, or do you think they belong in a museum? Share your thoughts and let us know!