How much did Jackie Kennedy's auction raise overall?

The auction raised over $4.6 million, significantly exceeding initial estimates.

Who was among the notable buyers at the Jackie Kennedy estate sale?

Actor Arnold Schwarzenegger was a notable buyer, purchasing President Kennedy's golf clubs.

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Jackie Kennedy's treasures fetch millions at auction

Q: What was the most expensive item sold at the Jackie Kennedy auction?

The most expensive item sold was Aristotle Onassis's 40-carat diamond engagement ring, which fetched $2.6 million.

20 Apr

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Summary

Jackie Kennedy's items sold for over $4.6m, far exceeding estimates.
The 40-carat diamond engagement ring sold for $2.6m.
Personal items, including a textbook and lighter, fetched high prices.

Jackie Kennedy's treasures fetch millions at auction

A historic auction held from April 23 to 26, 1996, saw an unprecedented surge in bidding for personal effects belonging to former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy. The sale, conducted by Sotheby's over nine sessions, anticipated earnings of over $4.6 million, a figure that was dramatically outpaced as the event unfolded. Many items intimately connected to her time in the White House drew the most intense interest.

The star lot was Aristotle Onassis's 40-carat diamond engagement ring, which sold for an astounding $2.6 million to billionaire Anthony O'Reilly. Another significant sale was the antique French desk where President Kennedy signed the nuclear test ban treaty, fetching $1.3 million. Even everyday objects like a child's rocking horse, initially valued at $75,000, sold for $400,000.