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Bid for Downton Abbey film sets' items far exceeds projected values

High-value pieces from the successful TV show "Downton Abbey," such as props, costumes, and various items, garnered a staggering 1.7 million pounds ($2.3 million) at a recent auction in London, according to Bonhams. This sale far surpassed the initial estimate, with the items selling six times...

Downton Abbey's auction of set pieces and wardrobe items far surpasses expectations
Downton Abbey's auction of set pieces and wardrobe items far surpasses expectations

Bid for Downton Abbey film sets' items far exceeds projected values

In the lead-up to the highly-anticipated release of "Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale," a special auction was held by Bonhams, featuring items from the beloved British series. The television show, created by Julian Fellowes, first aired in the U.K. in 2010 and spanned six successful seasons, captivating audiences worldwide.

The series, which tells the story of the wealthy aristocratic Crawley family and their servants over a 30-year period, has garnered a massive following, with more than 120 million viewers worldwide, according to Bonhams.

The auction, which ran online, included various items such as dresses, a car, and a clapper board, all of which had been part of the series. One of the most notable sales was the 1925 Sunbeam saloon car owned by Lord and Lady Grantham, which fetched an impressive £172,500.

Another standout sale was the "bell wall," a servant's call system from the series, which sold for a staggering £216,300. A walking cane used by Maggie Smith's character Violet Crawley also attracted significant interest, selling for £28,160.

The clapper board used in the production of the film "Downton Abbey: A New Era" also found a new home, selling for £9,600. One of the most iconic pieces, Lady Mary's wedding dress, also sold, fetching £21,760.

Every lot in the auction was sold, with final prices far surpassing expectations. The total auction realized an impressive £1,735,744, a testament to the enduring appeal of "Downton Abbey."

Charlie Thomas from Bonhams stated that the auction stands as a true testament to the enduring appeal of "Downton Abbey." The proceeds from the auction of props and costumes from the TV series will be donated to a children's aid organization, "Together for Short Lives," providing much-needed support to children with life-threatening and life-limiting conditions and their families in the U.K.

With "Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale" bringing the saga to a close, fans can take solace in knowing that the legacy of the series lives on, not only in the memories of viewers but also in the form of these unique and valuable items. The auction not only provided an opportunity for fans to own a piece of television history but also contributed to a worthy cause.

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