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In Symbolic Gesture, Pope Francis Auctioned a Harley-Davidson He Received as a Gift; Million-Dollar Value Was Destined for Social Actions in Rome
In June 2013, Pope Francis received an unusual gift at the Vatican. Harley-Davidson, in celebration of its 110th anniversary, offered the pontiff two motorcycles, a painting, and a leather jacket. Francis, known for his simplicity and love of soccer, also expressed appreciation for motorcycles.
On that occasion, around 800 motorcycles and riders were blessed in St. Peter’s Square. The event attracted brand enthusiasts and curious onlookers. The pope’s gesture, along with the gift from Harley, quickly garnered international attention.
Less than a year later, in February 2014, one of the motorcycles received by Francis was put up for auction. The model was a Harley-Davidson Dyna Super Glide, featuring the pontiff’s signature.
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Originally sold in Brazil for R$ 41,900, the motorcycle was auctioned for 241,000 euros. At the time’s exchange rate, this amounted to R$ 785,600. Today, the value would be approximately R$ 1.5 million.
In addition to the motorcycle, the leather jacket was also auctioned. It raised 57,500 euros, or R$ 188,500 at the time. Currently, that amount would correspond to about R$ 377,000. Bids were organized by Bonhams, but the buyers were not identified.
All the funds raised were donated by Francis to the organization Caritas Roma. The money was allocated to the Don Luigi di Liegro shelter and a restaurant that provides meals to those in need in the Italian capital.
The Dyna Super Glide is no longer sold. The model featured a 1,585 cc engine, six gears, and an 18.9-liter tank, with a total weight of 310 kilograms.
With information from G1.
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