top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

Pope’s Harley up for auction

Autographed bike will be sold for charity in Paris sale next month – with funds going to restore Rome soup kitchen

THE Pope’s autographed Harley-Davidson is to go on auction in Paris next month in a bid to raise funds for a Rome soup kitchen charity.

The American brand presented Pope Francis with the 1,585cc Harley Dyna Super Glide last June to mark its 110th anniversary – and he signed it “Francesco” on the tank.

Originally priced at €20,000, the bike will be sold by Bonhams auction house at its Les Grandes Marques du Monde auction in the Grand Palais, Paris on February 6 on behalf of the Catholic charity Caritas Roma.

The charity will use the funds raised to renovate its Don Luigi di Liegro soup kitchen and hostel at the Termini railway station in Rome. Around 1,000 people a day use the soup kitchen and hostel.

The bike, one of two presented to the pope, is expected by Bonhams to fetch up to €15,000 in the auction – although as it is signed by the pope and blessed by him it could fetch considerably more.

Also being sold is the Harley-Davidson 110th anniversary leather motorcycle jacket, size XL, that was also presented to Pope Francis. It is also autographed.

Bonhams head of motorcycles, Ben Walker, said: "We are incredibly honoured to be selling this item on behalf of Caritas Roma. We hope to be able to do both Pope Francis and Harley-Davidson proud by raising a significant amount of money for a very worthy cause.”

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Healthcare in France*
Featured Help Guide
- Understand the French healthcare system, how you access it and how you are reimbursed - Useful if you are new to the French healthcare system or want a more in-depth understanding - Reader question and answer section Aimed at non-French nationals living here, the guide gives an overview of what you are (and are not) covered for. There is also information for second-home owners and regular visitors.
Get news, views and information from France