Unexpected jackpot! Rare Nike shoe worth Rs 16 lakh found in donation bin, auction underway

A pair of Nike Air Jordan 3 shoes, discovered at a nonprofit organization in Portland, has now been put up for auction at Sotheby's. The rare gold sneakers were found at the bottom of a donation slot at the Portland Rescue Mission warehouse earlier this year. According to the auction house's website, in April 2023, a member of the transitional shelter program was arranging the items in the sizable containers filled with recently donated clothes and shoes received through the "donation chute." While going through the items, a pair of gold Nike Air Jordans was found towards the bottom of the container.

Once authenticated by renowned designer Tinker Hatfield, the shoes were listed for auction with an estimated price of $15,000 to $20,000 (Rs 16 lakh), and the current bid stands at $7,000. It is important to note that this particular pair of Air Jordans was never released to the public. They were worn by Spike Lee at the 2019 Academy Awards.

After being informed of the unidentified contribution, famous designer Tinker Hatfield visited the Portland Rescue Mission, also bringing with him extra design items such as a replacement box and a framed design proof, which he autographed. Tinker promptly confirmed the authenticity of the shoes and told staff, “I’m thrilled the shoes ended up here. It’s a happy ending to a really great project.”


Sotheby's, the New York-based art auction house, described the shoes as "made of premium leather adorned with a striking metallic gold design over the Swoosh, elephant print, and tongue. "The gold accents are contrasted by black, white, and icy blue details, with a red liner adding a finishing touch. The heel features custom logos representing Spike Lee's 40 Acres and A Mule Filmworks production company, as well as an oversized Jumpman insignia."

The proceeds from the auction will go directly to the nonprofit organization.