The Medal of Yavin, awarded to Luke Skywalker for his heroic act of destroying the Death Star in the iconic Star Wars film, is currently up for sale. This prestigious medal, which may fetch between £238,000 to £476,000, is being auctioned by Propstore. Luke Skywalker, portrayed by Mark Hamill, received the Medal of Yavin from his on-screen sister Princess Leia Organa, played by Carrie Fisher, in the original Star Wars movie, now known as Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope. Interestingly, the medal is believed to have also been worn by Harrison Ford, who portrayed the dashing Han Solo, during rehearsals for the film in 1977.
Propstore highlights that this Medal of Yavin is a rare find and is the first of its kind to be available for public sale. The prop comes from the collection of props master Gerard Bourke, who worked on the original Star Wars films. Another item of interest that is being auctioned alongside the medal is the Wookie’s bowcaster, featured in the original Star Wars trilogy that includes Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back. This unique bowcaster, estimated to be valued at £198,000 to £397,000, was crafted using a real Horton crossbow that was modified to fit the futuristic aesthetic needed for the films.
Brandon Alinger, the Chief Operating Officer at Propstore, expressed excitement at the auction of these iconic Star Wars props, acknowledging their significance in cinematic history. These treasures from the original trilogy are considered highly sought after due to their rarity and connection to the beloved franchise. Star Wars, initially filmed at Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire, has grown into a massive cultural phenomenon, giving rise to sequels, prequels, and spin-off series such as The Mandalorian and 2019’s Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker.
The Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction in Los Angeles is scheduled to take place from March 26 to 28, where fans and collectors will have the opportunity to bid on these prized Star Wars memorabilia pieces. The legacy of Star Wars continues to captivate audiences worldwide, with its characters, props, and stories remaining a significant part of pop culture history. As fans eagerly await the auction, the sale of these iconic props will allow them to own a piece of cinema history and cherish them for years to come.
The auction of these Star Wars props represents a unique opportunity for fans to acquire pieces that hold a special place in the hearts of many. With the enduring popularity of the Star Wars franchise, the demand for authentic memorabilia like the Medal of Yavin and the Wookie’s bowcaster is expected to be high. As the auction approaches, anticipation mounts for the chance to own a piece of Star Wars history and to become a custodian of these cinematic treasures. Stay tuned for updates on the auction and the final prices these iconic props fetch at the live event in Los Angeles.