In early 2009, popstar Michael Jackson was facing financial ruin. Part ownership of his Neverland Ranch was sold off, and 1,4000 personal artifacts were slated to be auctioned off. That auction never happened. A new one is, however.
Michael Jackson's expansive arcade cabinet collection was included in the 2009 Michael Jackson Collection catalogue from Julien's Auctions. His collection included cabinets like Jambo Safari, Mortal Kombat, Tekken 2, Guitar Freaks, Galaxy Force II, Super Street Fighter II and two versions of Crazy Taxi.
The auction did not take place — however, another Jackson auction from Julien's Auctions will take place later this summer.
The upcoming "Music Icons 2010" auction features items from Jackson's Kent, England residence — where he planned to stay during the This is It concerts. From the catalogue:
An elegant seashell encrusted silk upholstered "Shells" bergere with silver leaf front legs from the "Haute Couture" collection (Est. $16,500/$18,500), a lavish "Swarovski" crystal embellished bergere finished in platinum-gold leaf and upholstered in metallic leather from the "Haute Couture" collection (Est. $16,500/$18,500), And a luxuriant faux leopard and Ostrich feather trimmed "Wild Cat" bergere from the "Haute Couture" collection (Est. $16,500/$18,500), A regal pair of red velvet armchairs with gold double-headed eagle embroidery from the "Kalamos" collection (Est. $57,000/$60,000),
A magnificent 17th century style parcel gilt ebonized wood writing desk with mother of pearl inlay from the "Il ‘600" collection (Est. $115,000/$120,000), And a monumental Baroque/eclectic style red velvet and parcel gilt sofa with hard stone inlay from the "Esmeralda" collection (Est. $130,000/$150,000).
Does this upcoming auction contain any Jackson-owned arcade cabinets or gaming peripheral?
"They were in the previous auction catalog but they were returned to Michael Jackson prior to his death," auctioneer Darren Julien to Kotaku. "They are now in the possession of the estate." And that's where they'll remain for the time being, it seems.