ORLANDO, Nov. 19, 2025 — Ripley’s Believe It or Not! has confirmed it was the buyer of the infamous solid‑gold toilet, shelling out $12.1 million for the 18-karat masterpiece.
Created by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan and titled America, the fully functional toilet has become iconic in contemporary art for its audacious blend of extravagance and satire. Ripley’s says it plans to put the dazzling fixture on public display at one of its “Odditorium” attractions.
Ripley’s describes the acquisition as one of the boldest in its history — the gold alone is worth nearly $10 million by weight, yet its real value lies in its outrageous charm. The company is currently exploring whether guests might one day be allowed to use it, but says such a plan would require both planning and plumbing expertise.
This version of America is the last fully fabricated edition of the work. (The first was installed at a museum, later stolen, and never recovered.) By bringing the throne home, Ripley’s adds a truly extravagant piece to its growing collection of oddities and curiosities.