Introduction to Entertainment Memorabilia Auctions

In recent times, there has been a surge in entertainment memorabilia auctions, featuring iconic items such as a Doctor Who TARDIS, Stranger Things costumes, and a notable Blade Runner 2049 prop, all vying for the attention of collectors. However, the most coveted items in this realm are often associated with the Star Wars franchise, as seen with the record-breaking sale of a Boba Fett toy last year. Upcoming auctions include highly sought-after Star Wars pieces, among them a wearable treasure.

The Medal of Yavin

One of the highlighted items in the upcoming auction is the Medal of Yavin, specifically the one awarded to Mark Hamill’s Luke Skywalker by Princess Leia at the end of Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope in 1977. This medal is expected to fetch between $300,000 and $600,000, though its true value is immeasurable, as it allows its owner to bask in the glory of being a hero of the Rebel Alliance, having helped destroy the first Death Star and defeat the evil Empire, if only temporarily.

According to Propstore, this medal comes from the collection of prop man Gerard Bourke and is one of only two such props known to exist, with the other being held in a private collection and belonging to Harrison Ford. Notably, this is the first and only Medal of Yavin to be offered for public sale. The medal has been verified through screen and photo matching, featuring distinctive weathering in the upper corner that differentiates it from the medal worn by Han Solo. Interestingly, set photos indicate that the medal props were used interchangeably by performers during rehearsals, and this particular version happened to be the one awarded to Luke during filming, thus also carrying some residual mojo from its brief time with Han Solo.

The Auction Preview

The auction, scheduled to start in March, offers a preview of its catalogue, including a screen-matched Necronomicon Ex-Mortis from The Evil Dead, a Gremlins puppet, and a "mosquito trapped in amber" from Jurassic Park, all items that could unleash their own brand of chaos. Those interested can find more details and preview other items here.

Chewbacca’s Bowcaster

For fans of Chewbacca, there’s another Star Wars item up for grabs – the bowcaster wielded by Peter Mayhew in all three original Star Wars films. As noted by Propstore, there is no evidence of a second or backup prop, making this a highly significant and unique piece. The bowcaster is estimated to sell for $250,000-$300,000, offering the chance for a fan to own a piece of Wookiee history and fight like Chewbacca.

Conclusion and Further Information

To learn more about Propstore’s upcoming auction and view other notable items, visit here.

For more updates on upcoming releases in the world of science fiction and fantasy, check out the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek schedules. Also, find out what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and stay tuned for Doctor Who updates.