Darth Vader’s lightsaber sells at auction for over $3.6 million

The auction for a lightsaber used by Darth Vader in the Star Wars films “The Empire Strikes Back” and “Return of the Jedi” concluded on Thursday with a staggering winning bid of over $3.6 million. This iconic prop, wielded by both actor David Prowse and stunt performer Bob Anderson, was the primary dueling prop created for Vader’s character in both films. It saw extensive use during filming and is considered one of the most memorable film props from the original trilogy.

The auction, hosted by Propstore, had initially estimated the lightsaber to sell for between $1 and $3 million. However, the final bid surpassed all expectations with 31 bids leading to the winning amount of $3,654,000. Brandon Alinger, the CEO of Propstore, revealed that they received a surprising “cold call” about the lightsaber on a Friday afternoon. A gentleman contacted them claiming to possess the lightsaber, sparking the beginning of the auction process.

The lightsaber was sold as part of a larger auction in Los Angeles, featuring over 1,000 Hollywood costumes, props, and more. Alinger explained the significance of this particular lightsaber, stating that they were able to determine not only which character used it but also how it was used in the films. The lightsaber, made from a 1950s camera flash bulb attachment, was expertly modified by the production team into the iconic weapon. It bears authentic signs of wear, showcasing its direct involvement in the action and confirming its film-used authenticity.

The ongoing auction, which offers virtual and in-person bidding at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, is expected to bring in around $10 million in total sales. The lightsaber sale alone has garnered significant attention and praise for its unprecedented value and historical significance in film memorabilia.

The success of this auction serves as a testament to the enduring popularity and cultural impact of the Star Wars franchise. The lightsaber, a symbol of power and legacy in the films, has now become a coveted collector’s item for fans and enthusiasts around the world. With its record-breaking sale, this piece of cinematic history will continue to be treasured for years to come.

Adam Yamaguchi contributed to this report.

Sarah Lynch Baldwin is a deputy managing editor of CBSNews.com. She helps lead national and breaking news coverage and shapes editorial workflows.