From legendary lightsabers to ruby slippers and robotic icons, film history is filled with cinematic treasures that collectors are willing to pay big money for.
These expensive movie props are more than mere memorabilia; they're tangible pieces of pop culture and classic film heritage.
Here's a look at the most expensive movie props ever sold, showcasing the value of props from cult classics, Oscar winners, and timeless blockbusters.
Aragorn's Sword from The Lord Of The Rings: The Return Of The King (2003)
Sold for: USD 437,000
One of the most iconic weapons in cinematic history, Aragorn's sword, known as Andúril, was wielded by the heir of Isildur in Tolkien's fantasy franchise.
This mighty sword was featured prominently in The Return of the King, which won eight Oscars, including Best Picture.
Sold at a Bonhams auction, the prop fetched a striking $437,000, proving that fans will pay big money for a piece of Middle-earth.
The Floating Door from Titanic (1997)
Sold for: USD 718,750
Perhaps one of the most controversial movie props ever, the floating door that saved Rose (but not Jack) became an iconic image from James Cameron’s Best Picture Oscar winner.
The Titanic prop, crafted from balsa wood, was sold for $718,750, highlighting just how passionate movie fans can be about classic film artifacts.
Luke Skywalker's Lightsaber from Star Wars (1977) and The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
Sold for: USD 450,000
An iconic character’s weapon of choice, Luke Skywalker’s lightsaber from the original Star Wars trilogy is a true treasure.
Symbolizing the Jedi's power and Anakin Skywalker's legacy, this carefully constructed prop sold for $450,000, securing its place as one of the most expensive movie props ever.
Darth Vader's Helmet from The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
Sold for: USD 898,420
Darth Vader’s helmet, worn by David Prowse in The Empire Strikes Back, is a symbol of darkness in the galaxy far, far away.
The helmet worn in the film’s climactic moments was auctioned off in 2019 for nearly $900,000, confirming Vader’s dominance even in the world of movie memorabilia.
The R2-D2 Android from the original Star Wars Trilogy (1977 - 1983)
Sold for: USD 2,760,000
Standing 43 inches tall and built from parts used throughout the original Star Wars trilogy, R2-D2 is more than a prop; it's a cinematic history icon.
In 2017, this fan-favourite droid was sold at auction for $2.76 million, placing it among the most expensive movie props ever sold.
Dorothy's Ruby Slippers from The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Sold for: USD 660,000
Worn by Judy Garland, Dorothy’s ruby slippers are synonymous with Hollywood magic.
These sparkling shoes helped Dorothy return home and fetched a dazzling $660,000 at auction, making them one of the most beloved pieces of film memorabilia in history.
The Lion Costume from The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Sold for: USD 3,070,000
Another treasure from the Wizard of Oz, the cowardly lion costume worn by Bert Lahr, was made from real lion fur. Despite controversy, this timeless piece sold for over $3 million.
As one of the most recognizable costumes in movie history, it remains a prized collectible.
Steve McQueen’s Racing Suit from Le Mans (1971)
Sold for: USD 425,000
A cult classic among car enthusiasts, Le Mans starred the legendary Steve McQueen, who blurred the line between actor and racer.
His off-white racing suit, featuring patriotic detailing, sold for $425,000, a testament to McQueen’s enduring legacy and the suit’s status as an expensive movie prop.
Robby the Robot from Forbidden Planet
Sold for: USD 5,300,000
Arguably the most valuable science fiction prop of all time, Robby the Robot starred in Forbidden Planet and later in various TV series and films.
Sold for a jaw-dropping $5.3 million, this robot is the most expensive movie prop ever sold. It's an icon of film history and a milestone in cinematic technology.
It's also worth noting that Robby was sold at the same auction where Marilyn Monroe's The Seven Year Itch dress sold, which also made it onto this list!
Sam's Piano from Casablanca (1942)
Sold for: USD 3,400,000
“Play it, Sam.” Those words helped immortalize Sam’s piano, the heart of the Best Picture Oscar-winning classic Casablanca.
Featured prominently in the film’s emotional scenes, this timeless piece of movie history was sold for $3.4 million, making it one of the most sought-after film memorabilia items.
The Maltese Falcon from The Maltese Falcon (1941)
Sold for: USD 4,100,000
This Maltese Falcon statue is the stuff of legends. From the noir masterpiece starring Humphrey Bogart, the black bird sold at auction for $4.1 million, proving that classic film fans will pay big money for a piece of cinematic history.
Marilyn Monroe's White Dress from The Seven Year Itch (1955)
Sold for: USD 4,600,000
The subway grate scene. The fluttering white dress. Marilyn Monroe’s white dress from The Seven Year Itch may be Hollywood's most iconic fashion moment. It's no surprise the garment sold for such a high price.
Auctioned off for an astounding $4.6 million, this expensive movie prop captured Monroe’s glamour and remains a timeless piece of movie memorabilia.
Audrey Hepburn's Ascot Dress from My Fair Lady (1964)
Sold for: USD 3,700,000
Designed by Cecil Beaton, Audrey Hepburn's dress is a show-stopping piece from My Fair Lady.
The black-and-white ascot gown worn by Hepburn’s working-class girl turned refined lady was sold for $3.7 million.
The My Fair Lady dress is one of the most expensive movie props ever sold and a standout in film costume history.
James Bond's Aston Martin DB5 from Goldfinger (1964)
Sold for: USD 2,400,000
A quintessential gadget-laden car from the James Bond franchise, the Aston Martin DB5 featured in Goldfinger sold for $2.4 million.
James Bond's Aston Martin is one of the most desirable cars in film history, offering fans a chance to own a sleek slice of spy action.
Explore More with Spin Genie
Whether you're a die-hard movie fan or a passionate collector, these expensive movie props show just how much people are willing to pay to own a piece of cinematic history. From Darth Vader’s helmet to Marilyn Monroe’s white dress, these iconic items prove that film memorabilia isn't just collectible, it’s priceless.
If you’re curious about more jaw-droppingly expensive items from around the world, from pop culture to property, check out some of our other recommendations on the Ask Genie blog:
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