The garment has an asking price of $6,000 to $8,000 in the June 29th sale from California auction house Profiles in History. The company’s president, Joe Maddalena, called the item “the most important piece of screen-worn Prince clothing that’s ever come up for auction” and noted he expects it to bring a much higher number.
The coat’s original seller reportedly acquired the item from her sister, a make-up artist, who was given the item by Prince after working together on Purple Rain. The auction will also feature Michael Jackson’s Swarovski crystal-studded glove from the 1992 Dangerous world tour, along with costumes from Katy Perry, Alicia Keys and Britney Spears.
Following the news of Prince’s death last week at age 57, AMC and Carmike screened Purple Rain at 80 theaters across 24 states. The film’s director, Albert Magnoli, issued a statement about Prince’s legacy, writing, “He was a good man, complicated and diligent, and like men of his caliber, he always demanded from himself and others the very best. Travel well, friend, wherever your next journey takes you.”
On Thursday, law enforcement in Carver County, Minnesota determined that Prince had prescription painkillers in his possession and in his house when he died. The Carver County Sheriff has requested help from the Drug Enforcement Agency to determine the origin of the medication and the specific prescriptions – both of which are routine checks.
The autopsy to determine the performer’s cause of death was inconclusive. However, the Midwest Medical Examiners Office is currently awaiting toxicology test results, which could take weeks.