Exclusive | Robert F. Kennedy’s former NYC co-op sells for first time in 50-plus years following a bidding war

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Robert F. Kennedy’s former East River co-op has sold for the first time in more than half a century for $1.99 million following a bidding war, Gimme Shelter can reveal. 

The three-bedroom, three-bath residence is at 870 United Nations Plaza, and it still features original details from the time that it was owned by the late Democratic presidential candidate. 

RFK bought the co-op in 1965, just before the tower’s 1966 completion, and used it as his official residence as New York Senator while his wife Ethel and their nine children — they would go on to have 11 — lived on their family farm, Hickory Hill, in McLean, Virginia.

The 14th-floor corner spread first hit the market last fall for $1.79 million, Gimme Shelter previously reported.

An initial bidding war followed, with a signed contract above the asking price for $1.99 million. But the deal fell through and the home was back on the market this past spring asking that same price, listing broker Mary Barbrack, of Compass, said. 

The 2,000-square-foot apartment is a model of late midcentury-modern architecture, and somewhat of a time capsule.

It has 48 feet of floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the UN garden — along with kitchen appliances and an oven, as well as marble baths, that have not changed since the building was constructed in 1966. 

It all opens to a foyer and leads to a corner living area. The galley kitchen features an eating nook, while the main bedroom overlooks the UN and the East River. 

The tower and its twin at 870 UN Plaza were built by Wallace K. Harrison and Max Abramovitz, with a bronze-and-glass curtain wall and a soaring, double height lobby. Harrison and Abramovitz also built the United Nations complex and Lincoln Center. 

Building amenities include a concierge, doorman, gym, lounge and a roof deck with panoramic views.