Iconic Props and Where They Are Now
Over the years, certain movie and TV props have become almost as famous as the actors who used them. These items carry so much personality and history that they can instantly transport fans back to the scenes they love. While many ended up in museums or private collections, others have been lost, destroyed, or tucked away in studio archives.
Tracking down these legendary pieces is like uncovering hidden treasure. Some props have been preserved in perfect condition, while others bear the marks of age and use. Whether they are proudly displayed for the public or secretly guarded in someone’s home, their stories are often just as fascinating as the films and shows they came from.
The DeLorean from ‘Back to the Future’
The time-traveling DeLorean is easily one of the most recognizable cars in film history. Several versions were made for the trilogy, each modified for different types of shots. One of the surviving hero cars now resides at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, restored to its full movie glory.
Another screen-used DeLorean ended up in private hands and was painstakingly rebuilt after years of neglect. Today, it tours fan conventions and charity events, still drawing huge crowds of nostalgic fans.
The Ruby Slippers from ‘The Wizard of Oz’
The glittering ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland became a symbol of classic Hollywood magic. Multiple pairs were made for the film, and several have survived. One pair is housed at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, where it remains one of the most visited exhibits.
Another pair had a more dramatic story, having been stolen in 2005 and later recovered by the FBI in 2018. They have since been returned to their rightful place for fans to admire once again.
Wilson from ‘Cast Away’
The volleyball that became Tom Hanks’ unlikely co-star has a surprisingly emotional legacy. The original Wilson used in filming was sold at auction for a hefty price, with its weathered, hand-painted face still intact.
Several replica Wilsons were also created for the movie, and some of them now belong to crew members or sit in private collections. Fans often recreate the prop for display, keeping the spirit of the character alive.
The Hoverboard from ‘Back to the Future Part II’
The pink Mattel hoverboard Marty McFly zips around on remains a fan favorite. The original prop was made of lightweight materials and never actually hovered, but it looked convincing on screen.
Today, screen-used hoverboards are extremely rare. One of the best-preserved versions sold at auction for tens of thousands of dollars and now belongs to a private collector who keeps it under tight protection.
The Lightsaber from ‘Star Wars’
Luke Skywalker’s original lightsaber from the 1977 film was crafted from a modified camera flash handle. It has since become one of the most valuable movie props in the world.
The original prop resides in a private collection after being sold at auction for a staggering sum. Meanwhile, replicas can be found everywhere, from toy stores to high-end collectibles, keeping the legacy alive for new generations.
The Proton Pack from ‘Ghostbusters’
The bulky proton pack is a perfect blend of sci-fi imagination and 80s charm. The original packs were heavy, hand-built creations that helped make the ghostbusting action feel real.
Several of the screen-used packs have been restored and are on display at various fan events. Others are in the hands of collectors who have kept them exactly as they appeared when filming wrapped.
The Iron Throne from ‘Game of Thrones’
The imposing Iron Throne became a visual icon of power and intrigue. While multiple versions were built for filming, the primary throne ended up in HBO’s possession.
It now sits in their corporate headquarters, occasionally traveling for special exhibits and fan conventions. Several official replicas have been made, including a full-size one at the show’s touring exhibition.
The T-Rex from ‘Jurassic Park’
The animatronic T-Rex was a marvel of practical effects, requiring an entire team to operate. Built by Stan Winston Studios, it became the film’s breakout star.
Parts of the original animatronic have been restored and are displayed at Universal Studios, while others have been archived for preservation. Its legacy lives on in modern sequels and behind-the-scenes documentaries.
The Golden Idol from ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’
The gleaming idol from the opening scene remains one of the most recognizable props in adventure film history. Several versions were made for different shots, each slightly different in design.
One of the hero idols is now on display at the Lucasfilm Archives, while others have been sold to private collectors. Reproductions are widely available, making it one of the most replicated props in movie history.
The Batmobile from ‘Batman’ (1989)
Tim Burton’s sleek, gothic Batmobile turned heads when it first roared onto the screen. Built on a custom chassis, it was more showpiece than street-ready vehicle.
One of the original cars now sits in the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, while another has been restored by a private owner who occasionally takes it to special events.
The Maltese Falcon from ‘The Maltese Falcon’
This mysterious statuette has been called “the stuff dreams are made of” for good reason. Multiple versions were made for the film, with one screen-used falcon selling at auction for over \$4 million.
Another is part of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures collection, where it draws the attention of classic film enthusiasts from all over the world.
The Letter from ‘Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone’
Harry’s Hogwarts acceptance letter is a small but magical part of the franchise. Hundreds of prop letters were made for filming, with many used in the iconic scene where they flood the Dursley home.
Some of the originals have ended up in private collections, while others have been auctioned off to fans. A few are displayed in official ‘Harry Potter’ exhibitions around the globe.
The Ring from ‘The Lord of the Rings’
The One Ring itself was crafted in multiple versions, from large-scale models for close-ups to smaller, wearable ones. Each carried the inscription that became so famous among fans.
Many of these rings are now in the Weta Workshop archives, while a few were gifted to key cast and crew members. Replicas remain one of the most popular pieces of movie memorabilia ever sold.
The Sofa from ‘Friends’
The orange Central Perk couch became almost like a cast member itself. It was the setting for countless iconic scenes throughout the show’s run.
The original sofa is now part of the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, where fans can sit on it and take photos. Replicas have been created for pop-up experiences around the world.
The Shark from ‘Jaws’
Nicknamed “Bruce” by the crew, the mechanical shark was famously temperamental during filming. Despite the challenges, it became one of cinema’s most memorable monsters.
One of the surviving sharks was restored and now hangs at Universal Studios Hollywood, where it greets visitors as a beloved piece of movie history.
Which of these props would you most like to see in person? Share your thoughts in the comments!