Ruby Slippers

The Ruby Slippers worn by Dorothy in the movie, The Wizard of Oz protected her from the evil magic of the Wicked Witch of the West. The slippers, which were silver in the book, also gave her the power of going home to Kansas any time she wished (had she but known).

The slippers, however, were only ruby in the movie. They were silver in the book.

Several pairs of slippers were constructed for the film. One pair is on permanent exhibition at the Smithsonian Institution, the others are owned by private collectors. On May 24, 2000, a pair of Ruby Slippers was auctioned for $666,000 (including a $66,000 commission).