Los Angeles - The contents of former pop idol Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch went on public viewing Tuesday ahead of an auction next week that is being challenged by the controversial singer's lawyers. Among the approximately 1,390 items on display at a former Beverly Hills department store were the wrought iron gates of Neverland Ranch, the crystal-covered glove worn by Jackson in the video for Billie Jean, numerous musical awards, a letter from former president Ronald Reagan, heaps of ornate furniture, dozens of statues and a massive collection of toys, games and pinball machines.

Organizers of the sale at Julien's Auctions estimate that it could raise between 10 million and 20 million dollars, and take a sizable chunk out of Jackson's estimated 24-million-dollar debt. Jackson also recently signed on to perform a 50-concert run in London in a bid to raise cash and solve his financial problems.

Jackson's legal representatives are trying to stop the sale claiming that the singer was never given a chance to sort out his personal effects. Their initial motion was denied, but another court hearing is set for Wednesday.

Jackson lived in Neverland for more than 10 years before leaving it in the aftermath of the child molestation case in 2005, in which he was acquitted of charges that he sexually abused a young visitor at the ranch. Auctioneers spent three months emptying the massive estate and have split the eclectic collection into three main categories: stage wear and music memorabilia, toys and Disney memorablia, and furniture and decorative arts.

"Neverland represents Michael Jackson's Xanadu," said auction director Martin Nolan. "There's something for everyone, from paintings to porcelain to bicycles."

Also on offer are numerous portraits of Jackson is his favourite royal poses, a tour bus, bumper cars and all-terrain vehicles. There are life-size statues of ET and Darth Vader, endless Peter Pan paraphernalia, and dozens of figures of butlers, maids and children that were scattered around the house and its grounds. There's also a Rolls Royce limousine with 24-karat gold trim and numerous jackets Jackson wore on stage and in television appearances.

Online bidding has already started at juliensauctions. com, and the live auction from April 22 to 25 will determine the winners.(dpa)