Death of Pope Francis: Souvenir stores eagerly anticipating profits
In the wake of Pope Francis' passing, online marketplaces are brimming with merchandise bearing his likeness. From rosaries to mugs, these items are in high demand, with prices fluctuating wildly. While some sellers keep prices affordable, others are cashing in - risking the ire of buyers with inflated costs.
Following the pope's death on April 21st at the age of 88, many are eager to remember his tenure. A couple who met Pope Francis during a trip to Corsica were deeply moved, and quickly purchased a souvenir album to keep as a memento of his visit.
Online resale sites like LeBonCoin, Vinted, and eBay are seeing a surge in listings for Pope Francis merchandise. Sellers are reporting swift sales, comparing the phenomenon to a music superstar peddling their merchandise. For instance, one seller had several rosewood rosaries, a silver rosary, and a magnet fly off the virtual shelves within minutes of listing them.
Prices for these items can vary greatly. While some itemslike books and coins can be found for just a few euros, others command hefty sums. A signed photo of the pope, originally purchased for only a few euros, is being resold for a hefty 55 euros. The seller defends the price, stating that the signature is "priceless." Regardless, they vow not to further increase the price out of respect for the pope and devout followers.
It's worth noting that Pope Francis eschewed a salary during his papacy, redirecting the funds to charity. This rejection of financial perks might contribute to the sentimental or symbolic value of memorabilia, as collectors often prioritize narratives of humility in religious artifacts. However, whether this has a direct impact on posthumous memorabilia pricing remains unclear.
Francis' passing has sparked an increased interest in social-media platforms, with users sharing memories of him and his humble approach towards money, such as his refusal of a salary during his papacy. The entertainment industry has also noticed this trend, with pop-culture outlets publishing lists of Francis-related merchandise available online, from Corsica souvenirs to rosaries. In light of this surge in demand for these items, the prices for them on online marketplaces like LeBonCoin, Vinted, and eBay can be quite varied, with some items being quite affordable while others are quite expensive, reflecting the sentimental value that some collectors assign to certain Francis memorabilia. Regardless, it's important to exercise caution when purchasing these items, as some sellers may be attempting to cash in on the pope's popularity and inflate costs.
