“Star Wars” and “Ghostbusters” Props Sell for Millions at LA Auction

A collection of legendary film props recently went under the hammer, drawing cinephiles and collectors eager to own a piece of cinematic history. From the galaxy of “Star Wars” to the supernatural world of “Ghostbusters,” these iconic items commanded staggering prices, proving their timeless appeal.

The auction, hosted by Propstore in Los Angeles, featured an array of memorabilia from some of the most celebrated movies, bringing in nearly $7 million on its first day.

Record-Breaking Sales of Film Memorabilia

Instagram | prop_store | The original Chewbacca bowcaster from “Star Wars” fetched $768,600 at auction.

Among the most sought-after items was the original bowcaster wielded by Chewbacca in “Star Wars.” The weapon, used on-screen by the beloved Wookiee, sold for an astonishing $768,600. This particular piece was verified through screen-matching technology, ensuring it was the very same prop used in the film.

Another standout was the ghost trap from “Ghostbusters,” which lit up and functioned just as it did in the 1984 classic. Fans of the paranormal comedy battled it out for ownership, with the winning bid reaching $327,600.

Other Noteworthy Sales

Several other legendary props and costumes found new homes:

1. “Conan the Barbarian” (1982) – The mighty Atlantean sword wielded by Arnold Schwarzenegger sold for $176,400.

2. “The Fifth Element” (1997) – The Zorg Industries “Rocket Launcher” ZF-1, a futuristic and screen-matched weapon, also fetched $176,400.

3. “The Great Dictator” (1940) – Charlie Chaplin’s boots from the film, a significant piece of Hollywood history, sold for $157,500.

4. “Batman Returns” (1992) – Michael Keaton’s Batsuit, an emblem of the caped crusader, brought in $157,500.

5. “Grease” (1978) – John Travolta’s T-Birds jacket from his role as Danny Zuko found a buyer at $126,000.

The auction featured hundreds of other memorable pieces, each representing a different era of Hollywood storytelling.

A Celebration of Cinematic Legacy

Brandon Alinger, COO of Propstore, highlighted the success of the auction, stating, “The response has been incredible. Fans continue to show their love for classics like ‘Star Wars,’ ‘Batman,’ and ‘Ghostbusters.’ It’s an honor to connect them with these significant artifacts.”

The event was far from over, as over 800 more items were set to hit the auction block in the following days. Collectors had the opportunity to bid online or via phone, ensuring participation from around the world.

Why Do Film Props Hold Such Value?

Instagram | prop_store | The auction presented a broad spectrum of Hollywood’s storytelling history.

For collectors, owning a piece of movie history is more than just a financial investment—it’s a deep connection to stories that have shaped culture. Props from films like “Star Wars” or “Harry Potter” are not just relics; they evoke nostalgia and transport fans back to unforgettable cinematic moments.

Authenticity plays a significant role in determining value, with screen-matching techniques verifying whether a prop was actually used in filming. Rare, well-preserved items, especially those linked to major franchises, often see skyrocketing prices.

The Future of Movie Memorabilia Auctions

With fan interest at an all-time high, auctions featuring film props are expected to continue drawing record-breaking bids. As streaming services introduce classic films to new generations, demand for memorabilia remains strong. Future auctions could see even more iconic pieces entering the market, offering movie lovers the chance to own a tangible part of film history.

For those who missed this auction, there’s always another opportunity around the corner. Whether it’s a legendary weapon from an action-packed saga or a costume from a beloved character, the magic of Hollywood lives on—one prop at a time.

Gossip