Top Record-Breaking Movie Collectibles of All Time

A recent study by Public Desire analyzed auction prices of high-profile Hollywood memorabilia to uncover blockbuster items that hold the most historical and cultural significance. The study evaluated items by auction price, category, and relevance in iconic scenes. Data was gathered from various auction houses, including RM Sotheby’s, Profiles in History, and Julien’s Auctions, determining final rankings based on the auction price.

James Bond’s Aston Martin DB5 tops the list of iconic movie memorabilia, selling for an astounding $6.4 million in 2019, making it the highest-valued vehicle in Hollywood history. Driven by Sean Connery in Goldfinger and Thunderball (1964–65), this gadget-equipped car became synonymous with Bond’s character. As the ultimate spy car, it set the standard for espionage vehicles in film for decades.

In second place, Marilyn Monroe’s white dress from The Seven Year Itch (1955) fetched $5.6 million in 2011, making it the most expensive costume ever sold. The famous subway grate scene, where Monroe’s white dress billows up, became one of the most iconic images of Hollywood glamour, cementing Monroe as a cultural legend.

Robby the Robot from Forbidden Planet (1956) ranks third, auctioned for $5.375 million at Bonhams in 2017, setting the record as the highest-priced movie prop. A symbol of 1950s sci-fi, Robby encapsulates the era’s fascination with futuristic technology, laying the groundwork for cinematic depictions of robots and artificial intelligence.

Next, Monroe’s “Happy Birthday” dress, worn during her 1962 performance for President Kennedy, sold for $4.8 million at Julien’s Auctions in 2016, securing its place as a piece of American pop culture. This gown, celebrated for blending entertainment with political history, captures a memorable moment that reflects Monroe’s lasting impact.

The Batmobile from the 1960s Batman TV series, driven by Adam West, is in fifth place and sold for $4.6 million in 2013. This legendary vehicle, loaded with distinctive gadgets, became an iconic element of Batman’s crime-fighting image and inspired generations of superhero fans.

In sixth place, the Cowardly Lion costume from The Wizard of Oz (1939) sold for $3.07 million at Bonhams in 2014. Worn by Bert Lahr, this costume remains one of the most memorable Hollywood costumes, representing the charm and nostalgia of a beloved classic.

Dorothy’s ruby slippers, also from The Wizard of Oz (1939), were sold across multiple auctions by Profiles in History, totaling $3 million, making them among the most cherished pieces of cinema history. These slippers, worn by Judy Garland, symbolize Dorothy’s journey down the Yellow Brick Road and capture the essence of classic movie magic.

R2-D2 from Star Wars sold for $2.75 million at Profiles in History in 2017. Played by Kenny Baker, this beloved droid is one of the most iconic robots in film, embodying the adventurous spirit that defines the Star Wars saga.

 

Finally, the dance floor from Saturday Night Fever (1977) sold for $1.7 million at Julien’s Auctions in 2020. As the highest-priced set piece, this dance floor is central to John Travolta’s famous dance scenes, capturing the height of the disco era and the film’s lasting cultural impact.