Tupac Shakur's self-designed ring becomes most valuable hip-hop artifact sold at auction

Marcus Baram
Author Marcus Baram

Marcus Baram is a contributing editor at Crain Currency, where he covers the intersection of finance and politics. Prior to joining Crain Currency, Baram was a staff writer at Fast Company and an editor at Huff Post. He has also written for outlets such as The New York Times, The Atlantic, and Vice. Baram is an expert on economic policy and has a deep understanding of the ways in which politics shapes the global financial system. In his role at Crain Currency, he brings a unique perspective to the complex and ever-evolving world of finance. With his keen analysis and clear writing, Baram helps readers make sense of the important issues impacting the economy today.

Jul 26, 2023
1 year ago
Tupac_ring
Credit: Sotheby's

A gold, ruby and diamond crown ring designed by the late rap legend Tupac Shakur soared at auction at Sotheby's this week to $1,016,000, making it the most valuable hip-hop artifact ever sold at auction. Tupac ring

The piece,  worn during Tupac's final public appearance at the MTV Video Music Awards in 1996, set off a fierce bidding battle and achieved more than triple its $300,000 high estimate. 

The ring was on offer from Yaasmyn Fula, the artist’s godmother. It included an inscription, "Pac & Dada 1996," engraved on the band and referring to his engagement to girlfriend Kidada Jones.

Marcus Baram
Author Marcus Baram

Marcus Baram is a contributing editor at Crain Currency, where he covers the intersection of finance and politics. Prior to joining Crain Currency, Baram was a staff writer at Fast Company and an editor at Huff Post. He has also written for outlets such as The New York Times, The Atlantic, and Vice. Baram is an expert on economic policy and has a deep understanding of the ways in which politics shapes the global financial system. In his role at Crain Currency, he brings a unique perspective to the complex and ever-evolving world of finance. With his keen analysis and clear writing, Baram helps readers make sense of the important issues impacting the economy today.