Classic Science Fiction Saga: Star Wars - "Prop items from the 'Star Wars' series are being sold at auction"
In a historic event for collectors and fans worldwide, Darth Vader's original lightsaber, used in the filming of the iconic scenes from "The Empire Strikes Back" (1980) and "Return of the Jedi" (1983), is set to be auctioned off by PropStore in Los Angeles this September.
This screen-matched prop, authenticated as having been used in the films, is considered one of the rarest and most sought-after "grail" props in the Star Wars franchise. The lightsaber, made from a British press camera flash handle, symbolises the powerful and tragic antihero Darth Vader, a character central to the Star Wars saga, and represents not just a weapon but the conflicted complexity of Vader’s character.
The lightsaber was wielded by both David Prowse, who portrayed Darth Vader, and Bob Anderson, his stunt double, in the films. Prior to the auction, the lightsaber has been in a private collection.
The estimated pre-sale value of the lightsaber is between $1 million and $3 million, with potential to exceed that range. This places it among the highest-valued Star Wars memorabilia, comparable to or exceeding previous sales of iconic props such as an X-Wing starfighter and an R2-D2 droid from the films.
The auction event will be part of PropStore's entertainment live auction in Los Angeles in September. Other high-value Hollywood artifacts will also be up for grabs, but Vader's lightsaber is expected to be the headline piece due to its rarity and importance to Star Wars fans and collectors.
This auction offers a unique opportunity for collectors and Star Wars enthusiasts to own a piece embodying cinematic and pop culture history. The auction coincides with the 45th anniversary of "The Empire Strikes Back," which many consider the best chapter of the entire Star Wars series.
The auction tour will embark on a three-city tour in August, stopping in London, New York, and Los Angeles, before the main event in September. This marks the first time a lightsaber from the original Star Wars trilogy is being auctioned off.
- The auction of Darth Vader's original lightsaber, a prized prop from the Star Wars films, is expected to break records as it is estimated to sell for between $1 million and $3 million, potentially making it one of the highest-valued Star Wars memorabilia.
- In celebration of the 45th anniversary of "The Empire Strikes Back," the auction of Darth Vader's lightsaber will travel through three cities - London, New York, and Los Angeles - before being showcased in the entertainment live auction in Los Angeles this September, marking the first time a lightsaber from the original trilogy is being sold.
