The iconic Darth Vader suit from ‘Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back’ is set for auction this month in Los Angeles. The 17-piece costume includes everything from gloves, boots and a pair of capes to a codpiece and a battery pack. Auctioneers hope that it will fetch almost $1-$2 million when it goes on the block on May 14 at Bonhams, Los Angeles.
Efe news reported The original Darth Vader costume was presented in Los Angeles on Friday. Bonhams auctioneers opened their doors to the media to showcase the mostly-black battle suit from the classic film.
Catherine Williamson, the director of entertainment memorabilia at Bonhams said, “Darth Vader is one of the most recognizable and infamous characters in the history of film and we are excited to offer this rare costume in our sale. The suit’s completeness, remarkable condition, and excellent provenance make it a true rarity in the memorabilia marketplace.”
The costume is owned by Bryce “Kermit” Eller, who wore it in the classic cult film. He appeared in several gigs as the Darth Vader character during several meetings with ‘Star Wars’ fans during the first few years of the fever. In 1979, Eller was given the complete costume and in 1981, he stored it away after he stopped appearing in public as Darth Vader.
Bonhams featured the costume a day before the world was set to celebrate a non-official “Star Wars” appreciation day. It is celebrated on May 4 to the franchise’s famous quote “May the Force be with you”.
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