The 10 most expensive pieces of James Dean memorabilia sold at auction
James Dean was an American actor who starred in just three films before his untimely death in 1955, but he left an indelible mark on popular culture.
His iconic style, rebellious attitude, and natural talent have made him a legendary figure, and his memorabilia has become highly sought after by collectors.
Here are ten of the most expensive pieces of James Dean memorabilia that have sold at auction.
1. His leather jacket:
In 2018, a leather jacket worn by James Dean in the film "Rebel Without a Cause" sold for $400,000 at an auction in Florida.
2. His script:
In 2014, a script for the film "East of Eden" that had been owned by James Dean sold for $15,000 at an auction in California.
3. His watch:
A gold-plated watch that belonged to James Dean sold for $42,000 at an auction in New York in 2019.
4. His motorcycle:
In 2015, a 1953 Triumph motorcycle owned by James Dean sold for $225,000 at an auction in Los Angeles.
5. His jeans:
A pair of Levis 501 jeans worn by James Dean in the film "Giant" sold for $36,000 at an auction in New York in 2018.
6. His yearbook:
In 2016, a yearbook from James Dean's high school years sold for $5,200 at an auction in Texas.
7. His wallet:
In 2013, James Dean's wallet sold for $5,760 at an auction in London.
8. His signed photograph:
A signed photograph of James Dean sold for $16,000 at an auction in California in 2019.
9. His jacket from "Giant":
A tweed jacket worn by James Dean in the film "Giant" sold for $22,500 at an auction in Texas in 2017.
10. His car:
In 2019, the Porsche 550 Spyder that James Dean was driving when he died sold for $5.5 million at an auction in California.
James Dean memorabilia remains highly coveted by collectors and fans alike, and prices at auction often reach impressive heights.
These pieces offer a tangible connection to the actor and his legacy, and they serve as a testament to the enduring impact that James Dean has had on popular culture.
Further reading:
The Celebrity Memorabilia Index
About your Author:
Adrian Roose has over 30 years’ experience covering all aspects of the rare stamp & memorabilia industry during which he has sold over £50m of unique items, helping build collections for Royalty, household name celebrities and 1,000s of collectors around the world.
Adrian was previously a Director at Stanley Gibbons, a Board Member of Stampex, and Executive Director of Paul Fraser Collectibles, PFC Auctions and JustCollecting, prior to founding The Memorabilia Club.