Darth Vader’s Lightsaber Shatters Records at Auction Selling For Jaw-Dropping Price

Darth Vader’s lightsaber from the original Star Wars trilogy has sold for a staggering $3.65 million (€3.1 million) at auction, setting a new record for the most expensive Star Wars item ever sold.

The weapon, used in The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and Return of the Jedi (1983), is the only lightsaber with confirmed screen use to ever go under the hammer, making it a highly prized piece of film history.

The auction took place in Los Angeles as part of Propstore’s Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction, which featured over 400 items from movies and TV shows. Brandon Alinger, Propstore’s chief operating officer, called the sale a historic moment for both the auction house and collectors worldwide.

“To see a Star Wars lightsaber – the symbol of one of cinema’s greatest sagas – become the highest-valued piece of the franchise ever sold at auction is incredibly special,” he said.

“It speaks to the enduring cultural power of Star Wars and the passion of fans and collectors who see these artefacts as touchstones of modern mythology.”

The lightsaber itself is a classic black-hilted prop, famous for its appearance in several iconic fight scenes. Its verified use on screen makes it an irreplaceable piece for collectors and Star Wars fans alike, adding to its immense value.

Other items on sale included Harrison Ford’s eight-foot bullwhip, belt, and holster from Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, which fetched $485,100 (€415,217), and Tobey Maguire’s Spider-Man suit from the 2002 film, sold for $289,800 (€248,052).

Patrick Stewart’s Ressikan Flute from Star Trek: The Next Generation went for $403,200 (€345,095), while the neuralyzer from Men in Black sold for $315,000 (€268,000). Kit Harington’s Longclaw sword from Game of Thrones reached $94,500 (€80,800).

Harry Potter items also drew attention, with the Platform 9 3/4 sign selling for $138,600 (€118,632) and Daniel Radcliffe’s wand from The Prisoner of Azkaban selling for $81,900 (€70,103). On the first day of the auction, 433 lots brought in a total of $14,302,417 (€12,242,284), with over 600 more items scheduled for sale over the following two days.

The sale of Vader’s lightsaber demonstrates how iconic film props continue to captivate collectors and fans. Its record-breaking price highlights not only the enduring appeal of the Star Wars universe but also the cultural significance of the objects that bring these stories to life.

Personally, I find it fascinating that a single prop can reach such a high value, showing just how much these films mean to people around the world. The idea that a piece of movie history can be owned and cherished is incredible. What do you think about a lightsaber selling for millions? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Have something to add? Let us know in the comments!