Movie buffs and pop culture enthusiasts, rejoice! March 2024 promises to be a goldmine for collectors as two major movie memorabilia auctions take center stage in Los Angeles. This is your chance to own a piece of cinematic history, from iconic props used in blockbuster films to costumes worn by legendary characters.
Planet Hollywood Auction: A Farewell to Tinseltown Memorabilia
The first, and arguably the grander, of these events is Heritage Auctions’ “Treasures from Planet Hollywood” event, taking place from March 20th to 24th, 2024. This auction marks a significant shift for the long-standing restaurant chain, signifying a move away from its signature movie memorabilia displays and towards a more immersive audio-visual experience.
Over 1,600 unique pieces will be up for grabs, representing just a fraction of Planet Hollywood’s vast 60,000-item collection. This treasure trove includes iconic items like Princess Leia’s blaster from Star Wars, Indiana Jones’s whip, and even the lifeboat door from Titanic where Jack and Rose shared their unforgettable moment.
For those seeking a truly biblical experience, Moses’ stone tablets from The Ten Commandments are also available. While the price tag remains unknown, expect them to fetch a hefty sum, considering founder Robert Earl estimates Planet Hollywood spent between $20 and $30 million on building this impressive collection over three decades.
This isn’t just a sentimental goodbye for fans; it’s also a chance to snag a piece of Hollywood history at potentially game-changing prices. The auction has already received seven figures in pre-bidding, setting the stage for what could be the biggest film-prop auction since the iconic Debbie Reynolds collection in 2012.
Prop Store Auction: A Week of Hollywood Treasures
While Planet Hollywood takes center stage for the final week of March, collectors shouldn’t overlook Prop Store’s auction, taking place from March 12th to 14th, 2024. This three-day event boasts over 1,000 items, offering a diverse selection of movie memorabilia to cater to various interests.
While there’s a surprising amount of overlap between the two auctions, including different versions of Marty McFly’s iconic costume from Back to the Future III, each event also boasts unique treasures.
Star Wars fans will be particularly excited about Prop Store’s offering. They have the golden head of C-3PO, worn by the character’s actor Anthony Daniels, estimated to fetch a staggering $1 million. This iconic piece is sure to be a highlight for any serious collector.
For those on a budget, Planet Hollywood offers a more affordable alternative with the head of Dot Matrix, Joan Rivers’ hilarious C-3PO knockoff from Spaceballs, starting at a mere $1,000.
A Collector’s Dream: Bidding Wars and Investment Opportunities
The upcoming auctions offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for collectors and investors alike. Movie memorabilia can be a lucrative investment, with iconic props and costumes often appreciating significantly in value over time. Additionally, owning a piece of cinematic history provides intangible value for fans, allowing them to connect with their favorite films and characters on a deeper level.
These auctions are not just about acquiring objects; they are about ownership of a piece of cultural history. Whether it’s the thrill of owning a prop used in a beloved film or the opportunity to invest in a valuable collectible, these events promise excitement and potential rewards for anyone who enters the bidding war.
FAQs:
Q: What is the most valuable item being auctioned?
A: The most likely contender for the highest price tag is the golden head of C-3PO at Prop Store, estimated at $1 million.
Q: Are there any iconic items unique to each auction?
A: Yes, Prop Store has the C-3PO head, while Planet Hollywood offers the lifeboat door from Titanic and Moses’ stone tablets.
Q: Is it a good idea to invest in movie memorabilia?
A: While not guaranteed, iconic movie props and costumes can be valuable investments due to their limited availability and potential for appreciation in value.
