Film enthusiasts and collectors of rare items around the world are eagerly anticipating an exceptional event: Propstore, a specialist in film memorabilia, is preparing to hold a massive auction in Los Angeles featuring over 1,550 original items from some of Hollywood's most iconic films and television series. The total value of the items is expected to exceed $9 million, making it one of the most significant auctions in the industry.
The auction will take place over three days, starting on March 25 at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, and will feature iconic pieces from films that have etched their names in the public consciousness, such as the Star Wars , Harry Potter , as well as classics like Jaws and Terminator .
Historical background: The boom in the film memorabilia market
Film memorabilia is no longer just disposable props; it has transformed into cultural and historical treasures with immense emotional and material value. This market has grown significantly over the past few decades as producers and studios have recognized the inherent worth of these items. In the past, many costumes and props were discarded after filming wrapped, but with the increasing passion of audiences and their desire to own a piece of their favorite films, a specialized market emerged. Auction houses like Propstore have played a pivotal role in organizing this market and making it accessible to a global audience, transforming it from a niche hobby into a serious investment sector that attracts major collectors and museums alike.
Highlights of the exhibited pieces and their cultural impact
Among the standout items at the auction is the vertical mask worn by Anthony Daniels as C-3PO in the Star Wars film "The Empire Strikes Back," estimated to be worth between $350,000 and $700,000. Also up for auction is the handle of Luke Skywalker's lightsaber in "The Force Awakens," with an estimated value of up to $100,000. For fans of the wizarding world, "Marauder's Map" from the "Harry Potter" films will be up for bidding—a rare item with significant symbolic value for fans of the series.
The auction isn't limited to science fiction and fantasy; it also features items from action and thriller films, such as the leather jacket worn by Arnold Schwarzenegger in "Terminator," expected to fetch between $75,000 and $150,000. From Steven Spielberg's "Jaws," the speargun and fishing rod used in the film are up for auction, evoking memories of the iconic chase scenes. Ibrahim Farag, an official at Propstore, stated that "finding items like these is extremely rare," emphasizing the historical and artistic value of these collectibles, which represent an integral part of the global cinematic heritage.
