Bob Barker’s Famous Microphone Was Auctioned Off, and It Fetched a Surprisingly High Price

Bob Barker, famous for hosting “The Price Is Right,” used a distinctive handheld microphone throughout his career. Unlike the smaller lav microphones commonly seen on TV, Barker’s microphone allowed him to interview audience members without pausing to attach smaller mics. Surprisingly, one of these large microphones recently sold at auction for a substantial price.

In 2007, an original Bob Barker microphone went up for sale on eBay, just before his retirement from hosting the game show. The winning bidder not only acquired the genuine corded microphone seen on-screen but also received a handwritten letter from Barker confirming its authenticity.

The auction concluded with a final sale price of $19,919.08, secured by Dave Ryan, a morning show host for KDWB-FM 101.3 in the Twin Cities. Ryan expressed his enthusiasm for celebrity memorabilia, particularly considering it a classic piece. However, his significant $20,000 expenditure left his wife in shock and disbelief.

The proceeds from this auction benefitted the United Activists for Animal Rights, one of the charities passionately supported by Barker throughout his lifetime. Barker was a vocal advocate against animal cruelty, generously contributing to numerous charitable causes and even having a Sea Shepherd Conservation Society vessel named in his honor.