Michael Jackson auction items previewed in Tokyo

Japanese fans of Michael Jackson wondering if they want to splurge on one of the legend's very own costumes at an October auction in Macau can get an early eyeful this week in Tokyo.

To stir interest in the October Michael Jackson auction, Julien's Auctions has taken a collection of the deceased KOP's handwritten notes, jumpsuits, jackets and more on a mini-tour, taking in Santiago, Chile, and Tokyo. Those craving a close-in view can visit Roppongi Hills TV Asahi umu  August 24-September 6 to check out the exhibition, called Keep on Loving. The items will eventually be put up for sale at Ponte 16 entertainment resort in Macau.

"It's the best collection of Michael Jackson items that we've ever assembled, and all comes to us from his family and from friends he gave them to," says Darren Julien, chief executive of U.S.-based Julien's Auctions. Pointing to the 15-year low of the dollar against the yen, Julien continues, "What's really great for the Japanese people is that the Michael Jackson auction is in Macau. For the actual auction, they fly to Macau and they bid in U.S. dollars, which is a good exchange for the yen."

Among the items to be displayed is a right-hand black crystal glove used in the promotion of the "HIStory" album. A beaded white glove already sold for US$192,000 in a Las Vegas auction on June 27, the first anniversary of the star's death. Whether purchasers will choose to wear the goods or revere them behind glass cases remains to be seen.

Japanese fans can also get their hands on a fully licensed plastic doll, which has inspired a number of kooky fan videos.