A rare pair of Nike Air Jordan sneakers designed for Spike Lee fetched $50,800 at auction. The gold-painted Jordan 3s were dug out of a donation bin at the Portland Rescue Mission in Portland, Oregon earlier this year.
Sneakerheads and fans of the renowned film director may recognize the Air Jordan 3 Retro “Spike Lee Oscars” from when he wore the shoes with a purple suit at the 91st Academy Awards in 2019. Lee accepted an Oscar for his film “BlacKkKlansman” that night. The model sold at auction was never worn by Lee himself.
According to Sotheby’s, the Jordans are crafted from premium leather, with a flashy metallic gold finish, and are embroidered with Lee’s signature as well as the signature of their designer, Tinker Hatfield. The heels also feature an oversized Jumpman insignia and logos of Lee’s production company, 40 Acres and A Mule Filmworks. Hatfield’s iconic elephant print, icy blue accents and a red liner complete the shoe.
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They were found in April when someone sorting through items at the transitional shelter program spotted them at the bottom of a large donation bin. The donor remains anonymous. After landing in the hands of the program director Ed Holcomb — who recognized them but believed they were counterfeit — Tinker Hatfield was eventually contacted and authenticated them.
The legendary shoe designer visited Portland Rescue Mission, confirmed they were genuine, and brought with him “additional design paraphernalia, including a replacement box and a framed design proof, which he signed.” Sotheby’s also revealed he told the staff, “I’m thrilled the shoes ended up here. It’s a happy ending to a really great project.”
The full hammer price went to benefit the Mission
