Movie buffs and collectors alike have long been captivated by the iconic objects that appear in legendary films. However, some of these objects have transcended their cinematic roles, becoming priceless artifacts of film history. At auctions across the globe, these rare movie props have been sold for jaw-dropping amounts.
From vintage movie cars to unforgettable costumes, here are eight of the most expensive movie props that have fetched millions at auctions.
The Aston Martin DB5 From Goldfinger (1964) and Thunderball (1965)
Sold for: $6.4 million
James Bond’s iconic DB5 from Goldfinger and Thunderball remains one of the most coveted items in film history. The vehicle, despite never appearing on screen in its entirety during filming (it was used for promotional purposes), fetched an astonishing $6.4 million at a Sotheby’s auction. The car is a true marvel, equipped with gadgets that still work today, including machine guns, rotating license plates, and ejector seats. For a true Bond fan and car enthusiast, this was worth every penny.
Robby the Robot From Forbidden Planet (1956)
Sold for: $5.375 million
Robby the Robot, originally featured in the sci-fi classic Forbidden Planet, has become one of the most beloved cinematic robots of all time. In 2009, the iconic robot was sold for an impressive $5.375 million, cementing its status as a prized collector’s item. Its intricate design, advanced for its time, continues to captivate collectors who wish to own a piece of movie history. Robby is not just a prop but a symbol of the golden age of science fiction.
Marilyn Monroe’s Dress From the Seven Year Itch (1955)
Sold for: $4.6 million
The image of Marilyn Monroe standing over a subway grate, her iconic white dress billowing, is one of the most recognizable moments in cinematic history. This moment was immortalized in The Seven Year Itch. In 2011, the dress itself sold for $4.6 million, making it one of the most expensive movie costumes in history. The dress’s historical and cultural significance, coupled with Monroe’s legendary status, made this auction a massive success.
The Maltese Falcon (1941)
Sold for: $4 million
When the real Maltese Falcon movie prop was auctioned off, it fetched an impressive $4 million, including a buyer’s premium of $585,000, bringing the total to nearly $5 million. This black bird statuette, which played a pivotal role in the 1941 film, is one of the most sought-after props in Hollywood history. The film’s status as a classic and the bird’s symbolic importance in cinema made it a rare collector’s treasure.
The Piano From Casablanca (1942)
Sold for: $3.4 million
The piano featured in Casablanca, particularly in the famous scene with Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, holds immense sentimental value for movie lovers. Sold for $3.4 million, this musical prop is a tangible connection to one of the most iconic scenes in film history. For those with deep pockets and a love for classic cinema, owning this piano would be nothing short of a dream come true.
The Cowardly Lion Costume From the Wizard of Oz (1939)
Sold for: $3 million
The Cowardly Lion costume from The Wizard of Oz, one of the most beloved characters in the film, sold for a hefty $3 million. This piece of cinematic history, worn by actor Bert Lahr, is an incredibly rare find. The costume’s historical significance as a key part of one of the most important films of all time made it a highly desirable item for collectors. Owning it means possessing a tangible piece of the American film legacy.
R2-D2 From Star Wars (1977)
Sold for: $2.7 million
R2-D2, the lovable droid from the Star Wars franchise, sold for $2.7 million in 2017. This particular model, which debuted in A New Hope, holds an immense place in pop culture. This iconic prop was not just a movie fixture but a symbol of the Star Wars universe. The sale of R2-D2 for such an astronomical sum highlights the enduring love for Star Wars and its props, which continue to fascinate collectors around the world.
The Dance Floor From Saturday Night Fever (1977)
Sold for: $1.2 million
In 2019, the famous light-up dance floor from Saturday Night Fever was sold for $1.2 million. The floor, once featured in the legendary Brooklyn club, was immortalized by John Travolta’s dazzling moves. This item is more than just a prop; it’s a symbol of the disco era and a cultural touchstone. For those who lived through the 1970s, this floor represents a piece of nightlife history that captured the spirit of a generation.
Conclusion
Movie props are more than just objects seen in films; they carry the magic of cinema, the nostalgia of unforgettable moments, and the legacy of iconic characters. As these objects continue to fetch millions at auction, they remind us of the deep emotional connection people have with film history. Whether it’s a car, a costume, or a robot, each of these movie props represents a piece of cinematic magic that collectors are willing to pay millions for, ensuring that these artifacts will live on in the hearts and minds of movie lovers for years to come.
