Julien’s Auctions Marks Marilyn Monroe’s 100th Birthday with Landmark Memorabilia Sale

On June 1, 2026, the world celebrated what would have been the 100th birthday of Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe with a series of tribute events and a high-profile auction of her personal estate. Hosted by Julien’s Auctions, the sale featured 185 rare items that offered an intimate look into the life of the legendary actress. The auction coincided with nationwide celebrations in the United States, including a notable gathering in Palm Springs where dozens of fans dressed in Monroe’s signature style to honour her enduring legacy decades after her passing in 1962.

The auction's centerpiece was a 1950s gold-toned minaudiere evening purse, which carried a pre-sale estimate of $100,000 and drew a significant early bid of $70,000. Other highly sought-after items included never-before-seen photographs of the star, her personal makeup collection, and various gowns. In a demonstration of the intense interest in even her most personal effects, a brassiere once owned by Monroe’s acting coach fetched a bid of $7,000. These items highlight the deep personal connection fans and collectors still feel toward the actress, whose private life remains as fascinating to the public as her cinematic roles.

The event also underscored Monroe's relevance in the digital age, with substantial interest and coverage noted across social media platforms like TikTok. This modern engagement illustrates how her image continues to transcend generations, captivating young audiences who were born long after her peak. The high bids and widespread participation in the centenary events suggest that Monroe’s brand remains one of the most powerful and valuable in entertainment history, sustained by a blend of nostalgia and contemporary curiosity.

As the auction continues, it serves as a testament to the timeless appeal of the 'Blonde Bombshell.' The success of the sale not only preserves the physical history of Hollywood’s golden era but also reaffirms Marilyn Monroe’s status as a cultural phenomenon that refuses to fade. For collectors and fans alike, these artifacts are more than just memorabilia; they are symbols of a transformative period in film history and the tragic, glamorous life of a woman who remains the world’s most famous movie star.