The allure of Hollywood memorabilia has been known to transcend generations, with props, costumes, and artifacts used by famous actors fetching astronomical prices at auction. These items offer a unique glimpse into the golden age of cinema. From legendary dresses to futuristic props, here are 12 of the most expensive movie-related items ever sold, plus insights into why fans are willing to spend millions on them.
1. Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers: ‘The Wizard of Oz’
Dorothy’s ruby slippers, worn by Judy Garland in “The Wizard of Oz,” sold for a mind-boggling $28 million in December 2024, making them the most expensive movie prop ever sold. The sequined slippers, coupled with the film’s heartfelt message of “there’s no place like home,” reflects the enduring legacy of the beloved musical.
2. Marilyn Monroe’s White Dress: ‘The Seven Year Itch’
Marilyn Monroe’s billowing white dress from “The Seven Year Itch” sold for a record-breaking $4.6 million at an auction in 2011. Designed by William Travilla, the iconic dress became synonymous with Monroe’s glamorous legacy. The actress wearing the dress over a subway grate in New York City remains one of the most famous images in film history.
3. James Bond’s Aston Martin DB5: ‘Goldfinger and Thunderball’
This restored 1965 Aston Martin DB5 — complete with spy gadgets — sold for $6.4 million in 2019. The car, which featured prominently in “Goldfinger and Thunderball,” cemented James Bond’s image as the ultimate suave secret agent. The vehicle’s unique modifications, including machine guns and an ejector seat, made it a dream collectible for fans of the franchise.
4. The Cowardly Lion Costume: ‘The Wizard of Oz’
The original Cowardly Lion costume worn by Bert Lahr in “The Wizard of Oz” sold for over $3 million in 2014. It was made from real lion pelts, optical glass eyes, and “Italian human hair wig and mane” (slightly terrifying, but okay). The costume’s elaborate craftsmanship, coupled with its appearance in one of the most acclaimed films in cinematic history, helped drive up its value.
5. Audrey Hepburn’s Dress: ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’
This Givenchy dress worn by Audrey Hepburn in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” sold for $923,187 in 2006. The elegant gown, which the actress worn in the film’s opening scene, gave rise to the term “little black dress” and cemented Hepburn as a fashion icon. Its cultural influence and association with Hepburn made it one of the most sought-after pieces of film memorabilia.
6. Harrison Ford’s Fedora: ‘Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom’
Ford’s brown felt fedora — made for the second installment of the “Indiana Jones” series — sold for $630,000 at auction in August 2024. The hat was a signature component of Jones’ character. It was crafted by the Herbert Johnson Hat Company, and featured a gold monogrammed “IJ” on the inner lining.
7. The Maltese Falcon Statue: ‘The Maltese Falcon’
The famous lead prop in the film “The Maltese Falcon” sold for $4.1 million at a New York auction in 2013. Featured prominently in the 1941 noir film, the statue’s mystique as “the stuff that dreams are made of” added to its appeal among collectors.
8. Helmet Worn by Darth Vader: ‘Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back’
This mask and helmet worn by David Prowse, the British actor who played Darth Vader, fetched over $1 million at an auction in 2019. As one of cinema’s most infamous villains, Vader’s props became enduring symbols of the Star Wars’ universe. The attention to detail and its connection to one of the greatest franchises in film history amplified its value. The listing also included Vader’s shoulder armor that was worn by Prowse during filming.
9. Sam’s Piano: ‘Casablanca’
The piano from the “As Time Goes By” scene in “Casablanca” sold for an eye-popping $3.4 million in 2014. The small, upright piano played a key role in one of the film’s most memorable and emotional moments.
10. The Batmobile: ‘Batman’ (1966)
This original Batmobile used in the 1966 ABC “Batman” TV series and film sold for a staggering $4.6 million at an auction in 2013. Designed by acclaimed Hollywood car customizer George Barris, the car’s unique features, such as its rocket booster, Batphone, and oil squirter, captivated fans and film buffs alike.
11. Harry’s Nimbus 2000: ‘Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban’
Harry Potter’s Nimbus 2000 broomstick, which was used by Daniel Radcliffe in “The Prisoner of Azkaban,” sold for $128,000 at auction. Though not as pricey as some of the other items on this list, the broom is instantly recognized as a symbol from the acclaimed franchise — and represents the enduring fanbase and legacy of J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world.
12. R2-D2 Unit: ‘Star Wars’ Franchise
This full-sized R2-D2 droid, assembled from parts used in the “Star Wars” films, sold for a whopping $2.75 million in 2017. Standing at 43 inches tall, the droid became one of the most recognizable and beloved characters in sci-fi history. Its steep price tag reflects the global impact of the series and the nostalgia surrounding the franchise.
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Film buffs might also be interested in 15 Vintage Movie Posters That Are Now Collector’s Gold. And be sure to check out 20 Candid Photos of Marilyn Monroe Before Hollywood Transformed Her and These 20 Vintage Postcards Offer a Rare Glimpse at Celebrity Homes.
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