“Rosebud” Rides Again: Citizen Kane Sled Sells for $14.75M

One of the most iconic props in Hollywood history, a “Rosebud” sled from Orson Welles’ 1941 masterpiece Citizen Kane, sold at Heritage Auctions on July 16 for an astonishing $14.75 million.

The pine sled, painted red with floral details and the word “ROSEBUD” stenciled across the front, was used in the film’s pivotal childhood flashback scenes and is one of just three known to have survived production. While most sleds were famously burned in Kane’s climactic furnace scene, this one was saved and rescued decades later by director Joe Dante from the old RKO lot and preserved in his personal collection until now.

Measuring 35 inches long and showing authentic production wear, the sled is not just a prop but a cinematic symbol of lost innocence and unfulfilled longing, themes at the heart of what many still call the greatest film ever made.

The sale shattered expectations, underscoring Citizen Kane's enduring cultural and emotional power and its most famous word.

For more details, visit Heritage Auctions.

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