A Pope Francis autographed 1585 cc Dyna Super Glide Harley Davidson motorcycle went for a record 210,00 euros or $284,000 at an auction in Europe this summer The Wall Street Journal reported Thursday.
The price was much more than the 15,490 euros a motorcycle of its kind and caliber usually goes for The Journal reported. A 50,000 euro leather jacket was also part of the package. The Pope signed his name Francesco on the motorcycle's fuel compartment using a white pen. He also autographed the front of the jacket The Journal reported.
"The premium here is even higher than for, say, a Steve McQueen bike," Ben Walker, head of collector motorbikes at British Auction House Bonhams told The Journal.
The feat happened on Harley Davidson's 110th anniversary and at the same time legions of motorcyclists arrived at the Vatican to honor the occasion The Journal reported.
"It's a record for a post-vintage motorbike, from the 21st century," the auction house said in a statement The Journal reported. An anonymous purchaser in Europe acquired the bike.
The Pope did not hop on the bike for a ride, but rather gave it to Caritas Roma, a Roman Catholic charity where it was then later bought at the auction by a phone participant who wanted to keep their identity secret The Journal reported.
The money will be used to renovate the Caritas Roma's Hostel, and Rome's Termini railway station soup kitchen The Straits Times reported. Tourists can see the bike at the Grand Palais in Paris, France.
The pontiff has a motorcycle himself, but has a Ford Focus for everyday use The Journal reported.
Pope Francis used a motorcycle following his election to the position rather than riding in a limousine.
He also frequented them in Argentina where he is from rather than using taxis The Sydney Morning Herald reported.
