New York – Bonhams is honored to present a gold opera coat, formerly owned by Marilyn Monroe (1926-1962), the legendary American actress, model, and singer who is recognised as a defining symbol of 1950s Hollywood glamour. The opera coat will form part of Bonhams Icons of Fashion sale taking place on bonhams.com on 7-16 June 2026.
The mid-length long-sleeved opera coat, crafted from gold brocade, dating to the early 1960s, features inlaid flowers across the brocade and an oversized collar. Inside, a label bearing Monroe's initials, "M.M.," are meticulously stitched in red thread, adding a personal touch to the garment. The opera coat will be offered at Bonhams with an estimate of US$12,000-18,000.
Marissa Speer, Bonhams Head of Sale for Handbags & Fashion, US commented: "The highlight of the Icons of Fashion sale is appropriately a piece that belonged to a true Hollywood icon, a gold brocade opera coat formerly owned by Marilyn Monroe, who was and remains, such a pivotal style icon. The opera coat is a perfect example of her enduring style with a wonderful, monogrammed label adding a personal touch. Following her tragic passing in 1962, the coat was bequeathed to her acting coach, Lee Strasberg and hasn't been seen on the market since 1999. We are delighted to present the coat at auction allowing collectors and fans alike, the opportunity to discover such a personal piece from her wardrobe."
Marilyn Monroe originally purchased the opera coat in 1962, just two months before her untimely death. She later lent it to her publicist, Patricia Newcomb, who wore it while accompanying her to John F. Kennedy's birthday celebration at Madison Square Garden on May 19, 1962, where she delivered her performance of "Happy Birthday, Mr. President." Following her death, the coat became part of the estate inherited by her acting coach, Lee Strasberg, and later managed by his widow, Anna Strasberg. In 1999, Anna Strasberg oversaw its sale at The Personal Property of Marilyn Monroe, a landmark auction held by Christie's in New York.
(Press Release)
