Two pieces of Louis Vuitton luggage belonging to the late Greek superstar Demis Roussos (1946–2015) are set for auction. Beyond their designer pedigree, the items carry a harrowing history, as they were on board TWA Flight 847 during the notorious 1985 hijacking.
On June 14, 1985, the Boeing 727 was seized by terrorists after departing Athens. Roussos, who sold over sixty million records with hits like “Forever and Ever,” was held hostage for five days along with his wife, Pamela. Roussos turned forty during the ordeal and later recalled being asked by fellow hostages to sing to help pass the time.
While the crisis ended in tragedy for others, Roussos’ luggage remained intact. The pieces were recovered, restored by Louis Vuitton in Paris during the 1990s, and have been preserved by the family ever since.
Demis Roussos’ items up for bid
The auction features two signature 1980s monogrammed pieces:
- Louis Vuitton Boîte à Pharmacie (Vanity Case): Featuring the initials “P.R.” (for Pamela Ratiu/Roussos), this case includes its original internal fittings and mirror. Estimate: £1,200 – £1,800 ($1,589 – $2,384)
- Louis Vuitton Alzer 80 Suitcase: A classic hard-sided trunk with reinforced brass corners and internal trays. While modern versions retail for over $14,000, this historical example carries a much more accessible estimate. Estimate: £800 – £1,200 ($1,059 – $1,589)
“Celebrity provenance adds significant value,” says Elmwood’s specialist Jess Mackenzie. “Collectors aren’t just buying luxury accessories here; they are acquiring artifacts tied to a defining moment in 20th-century history and a global musical icon.”
Pamela Roussos noted that the cases were a gift from Demis in Paris, adding, “Even after everything they went through, they remained remarkably intact.”
Related: Demis Roussos’ Bitterness for his Beloved Greece
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