A rare Levi’s denim jacket from the World War II era has entered the Guinness World Records books after being sold as the most expensive pre-owned denim jacket ever recorded, according to WWD.
The historic S506XXE jacket was reportedly sold for 55 million yen (approximately RM1.36 million) in a recent transaction, highlighting its extreme rarity and cultural significance.
The piece is considered highly valuable due to its origin during a period when textiles were strictly rationed. It also features a distinctive design detail, including a split back panel where two separate fabric pieces were stitched together, reflecting wartime manufacturing constraints.
The buyer was identified as Fivestar Inc., a beauty salon group, which secured the item as part of its collection.
Speaking to Guinness World Records, CEO Masayuki Sasaki emphasised that the purchase was not driven purely by price, but by appreciation of cultural and aesthetic value.
“This is not about how expensive a purchase is. It is a gesture to show that Japanese aesthetic values have developed to a point where we seek and appreciate global cultural heritage to be passed on to future generations,” he said.
He added that beauty extends beyond fashion and cosmetics, noting that clothing, environment, movement and even time all contribute to the broader concept of beauty.
