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BMW Signed by Pope Leo XIV Set for Munich Auction on Oct. 18

Verified Vatican News footage establishes the bike's provenance for the charity sale.

Overview

  • RM Sotheby's will auction the one-off 2024 BMW R 18 Transcontinental in Munich on Oct. 18 with a €40,000–€60,000 estimate.
  • Pope Leo XIV signed the tank during a September appearance at the Vatican, as documented by an official Vatican News video.
  • The cruiser was custom-built in white with papamobile cues and a matching helmet, with work by Motorrad Witzel and a special "Mystikweiß Brillant" finish.
  • Proceeds are designated for the Pontifical Mission Societies in Austria to fund projects for children in Madagascar.
  • The bike was displayed at BMW Welt through Oct. 7 and later received a protective clear coat to preserve the signature.