Michael Jackson's 1983 Moonwalk Hat Turns Up In Paris For Auctioning

Michael Jackson's iconic fedora hat is moonwalking into history!

Pop culture history has resurfaced in the heart of Paris in a remarkable turn of events for music enthusiasts and collectors alike. The singer's iconic Moonwalk hat, worn during his groundbreaking 1983 performance, is set to take center stage at an upcoming auction. 

While it shines as the standout piece among around 200 rock memorabilia items, Artpeges gallery organizer Arthur Perault acknowledged that recent valuations for Jackson's belongings have decreased. This is attributed to "the sale of fakes and the accusations against him." 

Despite the challenges, fans and collectors are marking their calendars for September 26th, when the Hotel Drouot in Paris hosts the auction. According to Daily Mail, the iconic black fedora is anticipated to command a price between 60,000 and 100,000 euros ($64,000-$107,000).

This treasured item, permanently inscribed in the annals of music history, was first owned by Adam Kelly. The gentleman had reportedly caught it when, during a televised Motown concert at the peak of his fame, the King of Pop tossed it while performing "Billie Jean" as he was about to do the iconic moonwalk for the first time.

The gallery organizer recounted that while Kelly assumed that Jackson's team would retrieve it, they never did, and he held onto it for years. It then found its way through a few private collectors, ultimately reaching Paris.

Apart from the late star's signature accessory, the other item up for auction is a guitar once owned by the legendary bluesman T-Bone Walker, with an estimated value of up to 150,000 euros. Additionally, a suit is worn by Martin Gore of Depeche Mode and one of Madonna's coveted gold records.

A piece of the wall from the now-closed Bus Palladium, adorned with signatures from rock luminaries like members of The Libertines, Air, and The Dandy Warhols, carries a valuation between 5,000 and 8,000 euros. Perault expressed a personal hope that "this wall stays in France. It is part of our heritage for all lovers of music and rock."  

The announcement for the upcoming auction comes after the late "Thriller" singer's son took to Instagram to share a touching homage on the occasion of what would have been his 65th Birthday.

The Blast reported that the post featured a nostalgic snapshot of the pop icon enveloped by his adoring children. This, no doubt, evoked a touching reminder of the enduring legacy he left behind for his family and fans alike.

The image captured Michael wearing an all-black outfit, including a button-down shirt and leather pants, with his trademark flowing black hair and stylish sunglasses.

Cradling Bigi close, the "Got to Be There" artist was framed by Paris and Prince, both absorbed in their baking endeavors. Accompanying the heartwarming snapshot was a caption brimming with love from the 26-year-old, who wrote:

"Happy birthday dad. I miss you and love you. You may be gone but not forgotten. You're in our hearts each and every [sic] day." 

As expected, his Instagram comments were brimming with love and support from his father's devoted followers. In a lengthy note, one fan expressed, "He will never be forgotten by those who loved him and still truly love him; I always remember your birthday, Micheal Jackson; for me, are alive here inside my heart and of many." 

A second called the late "Off the Wall" singer "an amazing man and arguably the best musician of all time," another emotionally assured Prince that his father "is and always will be very much loved. Happy Birthday, Michael." 

Additionally, one netizen expressed gratitude for the shared picture, stating, "I love that you posted this pic – it's always been my favorite one of the whole family." At the same time, a fifth supporter advised the late actor's son to "always follow his teachings and selflessness," adding:

"I know you will. Never distort yourself, always be yourself. A big hug from a big fan of dad."