Over time, specific props and costumes become more than just set pieces—they transform into symbols of the characters and stories they represent, often achieving iconic status, leading to many bidding on them in auditions for extraordinary prices.
This article will explore some of the most expensive movie props and costumes, highlighting their significance in pop culture and their impact on the film industry.
Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers – The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Price: $2 million (£1,563K)
Clicking her heels three times while saying, ‘There’s no place like home’ is one of the most iconic moments in cinematic history. Worn by Judy Garland, these ruby slippers symbolise Dorothy’s journey and desire to return home and give the viewers a deep sense of hope and the power of belief. As a result, these famous glittering slippers are not merely a prop but a piece of history, a testament to the enduring legacy of the film and its beloved characters.
Flying Car – Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1968)
Price: $805,000 (£629K)
This bespoke vehicle, which required cutting-edge technology for the time, was not just a mode of transportation but a character in its own right, representing adventure, freedom and the boundless imagination of childhood. Selling for £629K, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang remains a nostalgic piece of cinema history.
Joker Suit – Batman (1989)
Price: $125,000 (£97K)
Central to the Joker’s memorable performance in Tim Burton’s Batman was his costume—a brightly coloured, custom-made suit that perfectly encapsulated the Joker’s chaotic and flamboyant nature. The suit’s design played a crucial role in bringing the character’s sinister edge with elements of a clown-like persona to life. At £97K, the Joker suit exemplifies how a carefully designed costume enhanced the character’s presence on screen, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
The Glove – Edward Scissorhands (1990)
Price: $65,000 (£50K)
The scissor-hand glove is more than an accessory – it portrays Edward’s internal conflict. It illustrates how his desire to connect with others is continually hindered by the tools that define him, making the story both beautiful and troubling. Selling for £50K at auction, this glove is a prime example of how well-crafted bespoke props can become a powerful storytelling element that adds emotional depth and complexity to the film. It shapes not just the visual aesthetic of a character but also their psychological and emotional resonance with the audience.
The Door – Titanic (1997)
Price: $718,750 (£561K)
Often mistaken for a door, the panel, which was part of the door frame of the first-class entrance, was based on recovered debris from the actual Titanic Disaster in 1912.
This notorious piece of debris is one of the most debated props in film history, with fans endlessly discussing whether it could have supported and saved Jack and Rose in the final dramatic scene. Despite the controversy surrounding its use, this prop symbolises love, loss and the ultimate sacrifice. As a result, it fetched £561K at auction, serving as a reminder of how even the most straightforward props can acquire deep significance and become firmly embedded in history.
Themed Fabergé Egg – Game of Thrones (2011)
Price: $2,200,000 (£1,718K)
Storied jeweller, Faberge collaborated on a luxurious piece with Games of Thrones costume designer Michele Clapton to mark the show’s 10th Anniversary. The egg symbolises Daenerys Targaryen’s thirst for power, her quest for the Iron Throne and her identity as the ‘Mother of Dragons’. Although it was briefly featured in the show, this handcrafted prop, crafted from18-karat white gold and adorned with diamonds and precious stones, sold for £1.7 million, reflecting its status as a piece of art in its own right and its role in bringing the richly detailed world of Game of Thrones to life.
