A pair of legendary dancer and screen icon Fred Astaire's tap shoes are to sell as part of Heritage Auctions' August 10 Entertainment Signature Auction in Dallas.
 The feet that once filled these shoes were famously insured for $150,000 |
The shoes, described as "utilitarian" by the auction house, were worn in the 1941 classic You'll Never Get Rich, also starring Rita Hayworth in her first big budget feature. They are expected to make in excess of $50,000.
Featuring a lively score from famed composer Cole Porter, You'll Never Get Rich remains a fan favourite for its seven stunning dance routines, in which Astaire's remarkable talents are showcased to the fullest.
"Fred Astaire is a peerless figure in the entertainment world and these shoes are an important part of Hollywood history," commented director of entertainment and music memorabilia, Margaret Barrett.
"Not so much because of what they are, but because of who wore them and what was done in them! The film You'll Never Get Rich gave Astaire the ideal platform to showcase his mind blowing dance moves that still impress 72 years later!"
Not only are the shoes a fantastic item from one of Astaire's greatest roles, they have also been signed "Fred Astaire/40" by the star, with 1940 thought to be the year that he bought them. The lining of the size 8N shoes is stamped: "I. Magnin & Co. / Los Angeles" and "Fred Astaire".
The estimate set by Heritage Auctions suggests we could be in line for a new Fred Astaire memorabilia world record.
See our fantastic selection of autographs and signed photos for sale from Hollywood's golden age.
