In a thrilling celebration of nostalgia, the beloved Central Perk couch from Friends has sold for an astonishing $29,250 at an auction held on September 23, commemorating the show’s 30th anniversary. Fans of the iconic sitcom had the chance to bid on various memorabilia, with many items exceeding their expected values.
The auction, titled “The One with the 30-Year Anniversary Auction,” organized by Warner Bros. Television and Julien’s Auctions, featured 110 notable items from the show’s extensive history. The Central Perk couch, a cherished symbol of the series where countless memorable scenes unfolded, was the centerpiece of the event. Originally estimated at just $2,000, its final sale price was nearly 15 times that amount. The couch was meticulously crafted to resemble the original, showcasing orange velvet cushions and intricate details that include carved brown resin paneling.
Among other standout items was the Geller Cup Trophy, associated with the show’s Thanksgiving episode in Season 3. This quirky trophy sold for $9,100, a staggering 30 times its estimated value of $300. The trophy, a studio replica, commemorated the infamous “Geller Bowl,” where Ross and Monica Geller’s rivalry came to a comedic climax.
Additionally, various costumes and clothing worn by the main characters also commanded high prices. Monica Geller’s striped brown top from Season 9 sold for $2,275, while a blue cashmere sweater worn by Chandler Bing, portrayed by the late Matthew Perry, fetched $6,500. Rachel Green’s sweater from the episode “The One With The Truth About London” also sold for $6,500, far surpassing its original estimate of $1,000.
Other notable sales included Ross’s apartment dresser, which went for $10,400, and a police sketch bulletin featuring Joey Tribbiani that sold for $520, doubling its expected price.
The auction attracted bidders from over 30 countries, including Australia, France, and South Korea, highlighting the enduring global appeal of Friends. Julien’s Auctions CEO David Goodman remarked, “Thirty years since its debut in 1994, people from all over the world are still falling in love with Friends, as evidenced by the success of today’s 30th anniversary auction.”
This auction comes just under a year after Perry’s tragic passing in October 2023, a loss that has left a significant mark on the show’s fanbase. The successful sale of these treasured items serves as a poignant reminder of the show’s lasting impact and the cherished memories it continues to create.
Related topics: