Buckinghamshire company hopes Star Wars lightsaber will fetch $3m
The prop was used during extensive filming at Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire but has been in the US for many years, Mr Alinger said.He added the laser-sword weapon will be returning to the UK for the first time this August as part of a public exhibition.The auctioneer's previous highest seller was a $1.9m (£1.4m) hammer price for an original X-wing fighter model in 2022.Mr Alinger described the lightsaber as "one of the most recognised props in the history of film".He said: "There are a small number of other genuine lightsabers in private collections; there are two other known hero-quality lightsabers – a hilt used by Luke Skywalker, and a hilt used by Darth Vader."These pieces are known to exist amongst the collecting community but have never come to public auction."
Although the auction is taking place in California, many of the lots are from UK productions, including the Star Was prop, used on set at Elstree Studios.Elstree was also the studio used for 1989 film Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.A bullwhip, belt and holster made for Harrison Ford is also up for auction and estimated to get between $250,000 (£186,567) and $500,000 (£373,134).A Batman costume from the Michael Keaton film released in the same year, shot at nearby Pinewood Studios in Buckinghamshire, carries the same estimate.Filming has already started on a new Harry Potter reboot at Warner Bros Leavesden, but a Platform 9 3/4 sign used in several of the original films could get between $20,000 (£14,925) and $40,000 (£29,850).Some television memorabilia is also available: a flute from popular Star Trek: The Next Generation episode The Inner Light is expected to fetch between $250,000 (£186,567) and $500,000 (£373,134).
Mr Alinger added: "We've assembled one of the most impressive selections of authentic props and costumes ever brought to market."Whether it's the craftsmanship of an original Batsuit [or] the power of a Star Wars lightsaber, each item tells a story. "We're proud to offer this exceptional collection and to give collectors and fans a rare opportunity to claim a tangible piece of the films and shows that shaped our imaginations."
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