Meet the Masters gnome, the hottest item at Augusta's shop with surprising cost, history

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Meet the Masters gnome, the hottest item at Augusta's shop with surprising cost, history originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The most popular attraction at Augusta National during this week's Masters may not actually be on the golf course.

Instead, it's a gnome.

Seriously -- the Masters lawn gnome is a beloved item to be purchased at the Augusta National golf shop.

It's so popular that it's the only item available at Augusta that is limited to one purchase per patron, according to ESPN.

MORE: Bryson DeChambeau is using a 3D-printed club at the Masters

What is the Masters gnome?​

The Masters gnome is an item available to be purchased at Augusta's golf shop. It's pictured atop this article.

The gnome originated at Augusta in 2016.

It's 13.5 inches tall, has a little beard and is dressed in Masters-themed golf attire.

The gnome gets slightly different attire each year, making it a collector's item.

The 2026 edition has a working umbrella that unfurls.

What does a Masters gnome cost?​

A Masters gnome costs $49.50. They sell out within a few hours.

Then, they often get turned around on eBay for prices well into three digits.

Is the Masters gnome done after this year?​

The Masters gnome's future is actually uncertain.

Via ESPN:

Augusta National does not often discuss such matters and previously declined comment. But on Wednesday at his annual address, Fred S. Ridley, the chairman of Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament was asked what a reporter apologetically called a somewhat trivial question about the future of the gnome, and Ridley kept the mystery alive.

"No. 1, the question is not trivial," he said. "No. 2, I've been asking that question for several years, and they won't tell me the answer. So I can't help you."

There'd certainly be plenty of disappointed patrons if the gnome disappeared.

More Masters news:​

• The wild cell phone rule at the Masters
• Why Phil Mickelson is missing from the Masters
• How Hojgaard golfers are related
• Explaining the history of Amen Corner at the Masters

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