Darth Vader’s Lightsaber Just Sold for Nearly $4 Million

Over the years, many iconic screen-used props from the Star Wars saga have sold at auction to devoted (and wealthy) fans. But the latest item is perhaps the one strongest in the dark side of the Force. Via Deadline, we’ve learned that the lightsaber that David Prowse used as Darth Vader has sold for a staggering $3.9 million, via Propstore auction. The sale occurred on September 4. This makes it the highest price paid at auction for a Star Wars prop yet. This is the same saber that Prowse used in both The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi.Lucasfilm/Propstore

Here’s what Propstore COO Brandon Alinger said about this historic Star Wars prop purchase:

Today’s result marks a landmark moment not just for Propstore, but for the entire world of film collecting. 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. It speaks to the enduring cultural power of Star Wars and the passion of fans and collectors who see these artifacts as touchstones of modern mythology.

This particular Propstore auction saw a few other iconic pieces from beloved nerd franchises also go for astounding prices. One of Harrison Ford’s whips from the Indiana Jones franchise sold for $485,100. The Ressikan flute used by Patrick Stewart in the iconic Star Trek: The Next Generation episode “The Inner Light” also sold for $403,000. But few movie props are as in demand as those from the Star Wars saga. It’ll always be the one to beat. Earlier this year, Luke Skywalker’s medal he received at the end of A New Hope went for a hefty sum. Although not quite as much as Vader’s lightsaber. Maybe the dark side actually is stronger. It’s certainly more expensive.

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