Darth Vader’s lightsaber sells for £2.7m at LA public sale

A lightsaber utilized by Darth Vader within the unique Star Wars movies has offered for $3.6m (£2.7m) at public sale.

The prop featured in films including The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi was stated to be the “standout” second of the primary day of gross sales on the public sale held in Los Angeles on Thursday.

According to Propstore, the Buckinghamshire-based auctioneers, the piece of memorabilia was the highest-priced Star Wars merchandise ever offered at public sale.

Brandon Alinger, Propstore chief working officer, stated: “To see a Star Wars lightsaber – the symbol of one of cinema’s greatest sagas – become the highest-valued piece of the franchise ever sold at auction is incredibly special.”

The prop was used throughout intensive filming at Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire and was described by Mr Alinger as one of the vital recognised props within the historical past of the movie.

While the public sale befell in California, lots of the tons are from UK productions together with a bullwhip, belt and holster made for Harrison Ford within the 1989 Indian Jones and the Last Crusade movie which offered for $485,100 (£360,000).

Other memorabilia included a Platform 9 3/4 signal utilized in a number of of the unique Harry Potter movies which was estimated to promote for between $20,000 (£14,925) and $40,000 (£29,850), nevertheless, went for $138,600 (£102,573).

Mr Alinger, stated: “The result marks a landmark moment, not just for Propstore, but for the entire world of film collecting.

“It speaks to the enduring cultural energy of Star Wars and the fervour of followers and collectors who see these artefacts as touchstones of contemporary mythology.”