How the auction of an unusual gift from the Vatican turned into aid for those in need
Although widely known for his passion for football, Pope Francis also had a great appreciation for motorcycles. In 2013, to celebrate Harley-Davidson’s 110th anniversary, the brand gifted the Pope two motorcycles, as well as a piece of art and a leather jacket.
On that occasion, in June of that year, the Pope blessed around 800 motorcyclists and their bikes in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican. Less than a year later, in February 2014, one of the motorcycles – a Dyna Super Glide, originally sold in Brazil for approximately US$8,380 – was auctioned. At the time, the motorcycle, which bore the Pope’s signature, was sold for 241,000 euros, equivalent to about US$157,120 (based on the conversion of R$785,600 at the time). Today, this amount would be approximately US$316,192.
The leather jacket was also auctioned, reaching 57,500 euros. In 2013, the value of this item was around US$37,700, while the current estimated price is around US$75,440. The names of the buyers were not disclosed by the auction house Bonhams.
All the funds raised were donated to Caritas Roma, the beneficiary organization, which allocated the funds to the Don Luigi di Liegro shelter and a restaurant that provides meals for those in need in Rome.
Although the Dyna Super Glide is no longer produced by Harley-Davidson, the story remains a remarkable example of how an act of faith and generosity can take an unexpected path, connecting speed and solidarity.
Source and images: g1 / Divulgação. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
