A BMW R 18 Transcontinental, signed by Pope Leo XIV, was recently sold at an auction in Monaco for an impressive sum of 156,000 euros, exceeding the organizers' expectations.
The event was organized by RM Sotheby's, and the money raised will be used by the charitable organization Missio Austria, which has planned to build a school for children in Madagascar, thus contributing to the education of young generations in developing countries.

The motorcycle became known to the public when, in September 2025, the German motorcycle group “Jesus Bikers” traveled more than 1,000 kilometers from Germany to Rome to deliver it to the Pope. In a solemn ceremony in St. Peter’s Square, the Pope blessed the motorcycle and placed his signature on the fuel tank, making this BMW one-of-a-kind.
After the ceremony, the motorcycle was exhibited at BMW Welt in Munich, where visitors could see this unique model up close.
The BMW R 18 Transcontinental is designed for long journeys and offers a combination of power and comfort. It has a 1,802 cc engine, which produces 91 horsepower at 4,750 rpm and a torque of 163 Nm, guaranteeing high performance and stability on long journeys.

Auction experts described the sale as one of the most special in recent years, noting that the Pope's signature and the history behind the motorcycle add sentimental and collectible value to the machine.
Representatives of Missio Austria said that this fundraiser is a good example of how a unique object can serve a humanitarian purpose, making a significant difference in the lives of children in less developed countries. /GazetaExpress/