Yes, Churchill’s birthplace had a solid gold toilet: This is its story

In one of the most surreal episodes in recent art and crime history, a fully functional solid gold toilet worth 6 million dollars was stolen from Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill. The heist, executed in just minutes, left the art world stunned and the British police scrambling for answers. But behind this absurd story lies a tale of satire, arrogance, and overlooked security flaws.

A toilet as art and satire

The toilet, titled America, was created in 2016 by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan as a bold critique of wealth, excess, and the American dream. Crafted entirely from 18-karat gold, the piece was not merely symbolic—it was designed to be used. Installed first at the Guggenheim in New York, it allowed nearly 100 000 visitors to relieve themselves on a literal gold throne. In 2019, it traveled to Blenheim Palace, where it was shown as part of a contemporary art exhibit.

Underestimated value and vulnerability

Despite its value, Blenheim Palace staff insisted the toilet was “not easy to steal.” It was plumbed into the estate’s bathroom, weighed nearly 100 kilos, and was being used regularly. Security was relaxed at night, and the cubicle where the piece was installed lacked full surveillance coverage. That confidence proved disastrously misplaced.

A swift and damaging heist

In the early hours of 14 September 2019, a gang of five broke in, smashed a window, and ripped the toilet from the pipes, causing flooding in the historic site. The entire operation took five minutes. Though arrests followed, the golden toilet was never recovered. Authorities believe it was melted down and sold.