Never-before-released mugshots of iconic hip-hop legends 2Pac and The Notorious B.I.G. are set to go under the hammer in an upcoming auction, with the potential to fetch thousands of dollars. The “Hip Hop Auction,” organized by Gotta Have Rock and Roll, kicks off on October 25, featuring a treasure trove of rare hip-hop memorabilia, including autographed albums and photos from N.W.A and the Beastie Boys.
The standout items in the auction are those associated with Biggie and 2Pac. Among the highly anticipated pieces are video footage capturing Biggie’s final performance in Jamaica, paperwork signed by the rapper from that show, and their never-before-seen mugshots.
2Pac’s mugshot, taken in New York State with a Polaroid, is dated October 12, 1995. This mugshot was snapped on the day he was released on bail from the Clinton Correctional Facility. It’s worth noting that, according to recording engineer Dave Aron, immediately after his release, 2Pac hopped on a flight to Los Angeles, where he recorded tracks like “Ambitionz az a Ridah” and “I Ain’t Mad At Cha.”
On the other hand, Biggie’s photo dates back to 1996 and comes with a thank-you note addressed to someone named Megan, saying, “Thanks 4 the phone call!!” In 1996, the rapper faced multiple arrests, with one in March for an alleged assault on autograph seekers and another in July when firearms and marijuana were discovered during a search of his residence. It remains unclear which incident the photo corresponds to, or if it’s linked to a different encounter with the law.
Another photo from his New Jersey arrest, previously auctioned by a different house, shows Biggie in a different outfit compared to the Gotta Have Rock and Roll shot. However, in the earlier auction, it was revealed that while being booked, Biggie signed a similar thank-you note to someone named Teddy.
According to TMZ, these iconic mugshots are expected to sell for a hefty price, ranging from $20,000 to $40,000 each. Additionally, it’s reported that footage of Biggie’s final concert could potentially fetch over $1 million at the auction.
This collection of rare memorabilia is sure to captivate hip-hop enthusiasts and collectors looking to own a piece of rap history.
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Written by:
Dana Sterling-Editor
