Rare Marilyn Monroe Photos Go Up For Auction

A rare collection of Marilyn Monroe photos are going up for auction later this month. The collection, from the estate of Monroe’s personal makeup artist Allan “Whitey” Snyder, will be sold to the highest bidder at Julien’s Auction House.

Martin Nolan of Julien’s Auction House told Matt Lauer today:

“It’s spectacular. He was involved with her on the set and off the set so he had amazing, privileged access.”

MSNBC reports that the majority of the photos were taken on movie sets during the 1940s and 1950s. According to the Washington Times, one photo shows Marilyn Monroe in lingerie as “Whitey” applies makeup on the set of “Let’s Make Love.”

Nolan added:

“The camera loved Marilyn Monroe, but Marilyn loved the camera. When the camera was rolling she became Marilyn Monroe. She became distracted from her own issues and just played the role. She loved the camera.”

The winning bidder will take home a rare collection of Marilyn Monroe photos as well as the copyrights. MSNBC reports that the buyer will be able to make royalties from the photos if they choose to publish them.

Nolan said:

“(Marilyn memorabilia) continue to increase year over year, it’s unbelievable. … She’s still relevant today, and of course that adds value. She’s a global icon.”

Here are some of the photos going up for auction. (You can see more Marilyn Monroe photos at MSNBC.)

Are you a fan of Marilyn Monroe? How much do you think this rare collection of photos will sell for?