What is claimed to be the only signed nude photograph of Marilyn Monroe will form the centrepiece of a forthcoming web auction.

Twenty-nine costumes, as well as sketches of dresses and gowns created for Marilyn Monroe and other legendary stars, will be included in the forthcoming auction.

The sketches include what is probably the single most famous dress in Hollywood history: the white crêpe halter-top and sunburst-pleated skirt created for the classic subway wind scene in the 1955 Billy Wilder film The Seven Year Itch which exposed Monroe's legs to the world.

Ranked as the most important costume design ever created for a film, the sketch is expected to sell for between $80,000 and $100,000.

The 10 December sale, which is being conducted by file memorabilia auction firm Profiles In History, will be covered by a live internet hook-up through eBay Live Auctions.