Is Star Wars Memorabilia Worth Anything?

Unless you have been living in a galaxy far, far away, you will have undoubtably heard of Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Chewbacca, or Princess Leia. The first feature film of this epic series was released in 1977 starting mid-way through the saga with Episode IV; thereafter, the iconic franchise has produced sequels, prequals and spinoffs throughout the decades that followed and amassed a vast cult following. Indeed, the huge number of enthusiasts (across all age groups) ensures that from a few pounds to seven figure amounts, Star Wars memorabilia will invariably command a monetary value.

^{A collection of five items of original 1977 Star Wars artwork}

^{Sold for £2,900}

There are eleven Star Wars movies and several associated Disney Plus shows. Creator George Lucas made the lucrative decision to produce licensed merchandise for each film, which was unheard of in 1977; in today’s market these products are highly prized and collectable. Toys, posters, signed photographs, props, books, magazines, video games, pretty much anything historically related to the films has a demand.

^{Star Wars: a rare collection of original period memorabilia}

^{Sold for £7,500}

The value of Star Wars memorabilia can vary greatly depending on several factors, including age, rarity, condition, and demand from collectors. Rare and well-preserved items from the original trilogy, Episode IV: A New Hope (1977), Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and Episode VI: Return of the Jedi (1983), such as vintage action figures or limited-edition merchandise, tend to fetch the highest prices on the collector's market. Figures that weren’t popular at the time of their release, for example Boba Fett, have shot up in value in recent years and rare prototypes are highly coveted. The first wave of Darth Vader toy figures featured a telescopic lightsaber which was discontinued, these figures are now worth in excess of £3,000.

^{An original 1977 Star Wars piece of artwork}

^{Sold for £1,700}

On the other hand, more modern and mass-produced items may have a lower intrinsic value, unless they are part of a limited run or have unique features. Factors like packaging, authenticity, and the item's historical significance can also play a role in determining its worth.

Each film and spinoff has yielded a variety of different edition posters, recognisable by style and fantasy imagery, which can range from small amounts to thousands of pounds. Props such as lightsabers, pistols, helmets, masks, miniature models, set costumes and much more achieve anywhere from a few hundred pounds upwards. Mind blowingly, the original R2D2 film prop achieved over £2 million when it went to auction in 2017!

^{Star Wars (1977), a US One Sheet film poster, 'Style C', artwork by Tom Chantrell}

^{Sold for £1,400}

The Star Wars fan base extends across several generations, and their quest to recreate the nostalgia of this era in history is unlikely to die down anytime soon. From a Millenium Falcon prop model to an AT-AT toy, it is fair to say that the collectable market for Star Wars memorabilia is limitless, offering enthusiasts and budding collectors an entry to this vibrant collecting scene at significantly different price points. In the words of Yoda, "May the force be with you."

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Are you contemplating selling any Star Wars Memorabilia?

With a galactic audience of over 10 million active bidders, Dawsons can secure the highest price.

Get in touch with an expert valuer for confidential sales advice, we would be delighted to help.

0207 431 9445 / info@dawsonsauctions.co.uk