In a historic moment for the world of hip-hop and music memorabilia, a ring worn by the iconic Tupac Shakur during his last public appearance sold for an astounding $1.02 million at a Sotheby’s auction in New York. Tupac Shakur’s ring, a stunning piece commissioned by the hip-hop artist in 1996, far exceeded its estimated value of $300,000, reaffirming the enduring legacy in the hearts of fans and collectors alike.
The gold, ruby, and diamond crown ring held immense sentimental value for Tupac, and it was prominently displayed on his finger during the MTV Video Music Awards in 1996. Inscribed with the words “Pac & Dada 1996,” the ring served as a symbol of the artist’s engagement to Kidada Jones, making it a cherished memento of their relationship.
Yaasmyn Fula, Tupac’s godmother, presented the ring for auction, sharing in the emotional significance of the item. The Sotheby’s press release revealed that the sale set a groundbreaking record as the most valuable hip-hop artifact ever to be sold at an auction, breaking the million-dollar mark and solidifying Tupac’s place in history.
Tupac Shakur meticulously designed the gold ring over several months, a period marked by his signing with Death Row Records and an eight-month prison sentence. Sotheby’s provided insight into Fula’s account of Tupac’s inspiration for the ring, which drew from the crowns worn by medieval European kings. It symbolized an act of self-coronation, commemorating his survival through a challenging year.
The ring’s captivating design features a diamond-encrusted gold shank, culminating in a regal crown embellished with a cabochon ruby at its center, flanked by two round diamonds, and further adorned with five rubies at the crown’s points. Rubies, known for their association with royalty and wealth, perfectly complemented Tupac’s royal narrative, influenced by figures such as Niccolò Machiavelli and Túpac Amaru II, after whom he was named.
Beyond the ring, the auction encompassed an array of other items from the hip-hop legend’s life, adding to the excitement and significance of the event. Included were clothing, shoes, artworks by renowned artists like KAWS and Futura, signed letters from Tupac himself, and an original demo tape for his debut single, “Trapped.”
The successful sale of Tupac Shakur’s ring stands as a testament to the enduring influence of the artist, whose music and persona continue to resonate with fans globally. As a symbol of love, artistic expression, and survival, the ring will now hold a place of honor among the most valuable and cherished music artifacts in history. Its legacy ensures that Tupac Shakur’s impact on the world will live on for generations to come.