Iconic actress Raquel Welch’s legendary fur bikini from the 1966 film “One Million Years B.C.” is up for auction, with the pre-sale estimate set at $500 – $700. This bikini, which is a replica of the original two-piece worn by Welch in the movie, became one of the biggest pinup posters of all time. The current high bid for the bikini is $900, and it is among over 500 marquee items being sold by Julien’s Auctions from the Welch estate.
In addition to the fur bikini, other highlights of the auction include Welch’s Hollywood Walk of Fame plaque from her 1996 dedication ceremony, which has a current high bid of $2,000, and her 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL 550 convertible, which is expected to sell for $100,000. Another item up for auction is a Bob Mackie halter dress embellished with sequins and rhinestones that Welch wore on “The Muppet Show” in 1978. This dress is estimated to go for between $2,000 and $3,000. Actor Ryan Gosling has claimed that Welch in this dress was his first crush.
Raquel Welch wore the suede-and-faux-fur bikini replica from the film in her stage act and on her 1974 television special “Really, Raquel.” The auction house described Welch as having “grace, glamor, and grit in a goddess’ body.” Welch’s iconic appearance as a cavewoman in the fur bikini in “One Million Years B.C.” catapulted her to superstardom and solidified her status as a sex symbol. The image of Welch in the two-piece became a lasting representation of 1960s pop culture.
The auction of over 500 items from the Welch estate offers fans a chance to own a piece of Hollywood history. Items such as her Hollywood Walk of Fame plaque, her convertible Mercedes-Benz, and the iconic fur bikini are sure to attract bidders from around the world. The Bob Mackie dress worn by Welch on “The Muppet Show” is also a sought-after piece due to its connection to actor Ryan Gosling’s childhood crush on the actress. The auction highlights the enduring appeal of Raquel Welch and her iconic status in the world of entertainment.
Darren Julien, co-founder of Julien’s Auctions, gushed about Raquel Welch’s appeal, describing her as having “grace, glamor, and grit in a goddess’ body.” Welch’s unique blend of beauty, talent, and charisma made her a beloved figure in Hollywood and popular culture. The auction of her personal items, including the fur bikini, Hollywood Walk of Fame plaque, and convertible Mercedes-Benz, offers fans an opportunity to own a piece of Welch’s legacy. The high bids on these items indicate the enduring popularity and fascination with the iconic actress and her contributions to film and television.
