A crown ring once worn by legendary rapper Tupac Shakur has sold for a staggering $1 million at a New York auction, surpassing Sotheby’s pre-sale estimate of $200,000-$300,000. Worn by the artist during his final public appearance at the 1996 MTV Video Music Awards, this exquisite piece of hip-hop history now holds the title of the most valuable hip-hop artifact ever sold.
Tupac Shakur’s Legacy
Born in New York, Tupac Shakur captivated the world with his powerful lyrics and unforgettable hits like “California Love.” Tragically, his life was cut short at the age of 25 when he fell victim to a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas just days after attending the MTV awards. His untimely death left behind a legacy that continues to resonate with fans and musicians alike, 25 years after the release of his heartfelt tribute track “Dear Mama.”
The Design and Meaning Behind the Crown Ring
The crown ring was designed by Tupac himself, with the help of his godmother, Yaasmyn Fula, who eventually put it up for sale. The inspiration behind the design came from an unlikely source: 16th-century Italian philosopher Niccolo Machiavelli’s political manifesto, “The Prince,” which Tupac read while serving time in prison on sex abuse charges. Drawing from the crowns worn by medieval European kings, the rapper created a symbol of power and authority that transcended time and culture.
Engraved with “Pac & Dada 1996,” the ring also makes a poignant reference to Tupac’s girlfriend, Kidada Jones. An intricate gold band adorned with encrusted diamonds supports a gold circulet featuring a central cabochon ruby, flanked by two pave-cut diamonds—a true masterpiece of opulence and craftsmanship.
The Hip-Hop Auction and Tupac’s Legacy
The crown ring was sold as part of a dedicated hip-hop auction commemorating the genre’s 50th anniversary, which falls in August this year. Tupac remains one of the most influential rappers of all time, his legacy cemented by the sale of 75 million records and his pivotal role in the West Coast hip-hop scene, which famously feuded with East Coast rappers based in New York.
The Unsolved Murders of Tupac and The Notorious B.I.G.
The unsolved murders of Tupac and fellow rapper Christopher “The Notorious B.I.G.” Wallace, who was gunned down six months later, have fueled countless theories and speculation about the involvement of their respective music labels, LA-based Death Row and New York’s Bad Boy Entertainment. However, some music historians argue that this coastal rivalry was merely an exaggeration for commercial purposes.
Recently, Las Vegas police conducted a search of a home as part of their ongoing investigation into Tupac’s murder. As experts and fans alike continue to delve into the lives and deaths of these iconic rappers, the $1 million sale of this ornate ring serves as a testament to the lasting impact of their music and cultural contributions.
