Marilyn Monroe centennial fuels multimillion-dollar memorabilia market

The 100th anniversary of Marilyn Monroe’s birth has revived worldwide interest in the actress’s personal items and beauty routine. In Finland, a Marilyn‑week celebrates her iconic style, noting that she used simple products such as Vaseline for skin care and peach‑tone blushes.

In the United States, the centennial has coincided with a booming market for Monroe’s memorabilia. Auctions have fetched tens of millions, including a crystal‑encrusted dress sold for $26.5 million in 2016 and a two‑day “Sale of the Century” in 1999 that raised $13 million. Recent offers include a bra expected to fetch at least $20 000 and 1954 pelvic X‑rays that sold for $45 000, provoking feminist protests over the exploitation of her image.