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Movie Collectibles

Tracking Down Genuine Movie Props

What You Should Know About Movie Collectibles

If you are a film fan, you may wonder about the props and costumes that are used during filming.

What happens to those items after the movie wraps? Where do they go? Is it possible to get my hands on a particular prop or costume for my own collection and, if so, how can I display and preserve it?

There are no set answers to these questions, as each piece is handled differently. If an item is not too closely tied to a particular film, then it may be recycled for use in another movie or television show.

However, there are certain items such as Dorothy’s ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz and the poetry book from Dead Poets Society, that have become iconic symbols of the films that they represent.

These pieces may be held by the studio for periods of time, but eventually make their way to museums and private collections around the world.

Businesses like Planet Hollywood would buy - or have donated by the stars who were the co-owners - mass amounts of props from blockbuster movies.

Buying Movie Props

Actually finding authentic props and costumes to purchase can be a bit of a treasure hunt.

If you are in the market for something iconic, you might want to check with the big auction houses such as Christie’s and Sotheby’s. Both houses sometimes auction off lots of movie collectibles.

Be aware that the prices will generally be quite high, and you may be competing with big-name collectors and dealers.

However, the biggest advantage of dealing with the big auction houses is that your item will come with a guarantee of authenticity.

If your budget is more modest or you are seeking items that are less iconic, a great first step is to join one or more movie memorabilia collector forums online.

These groups can help you find a reputable dealer in your area and determine whether a particular item is genuine.

They sometimes offer classified ads as well, in which members can buy and sell items.

EBay and other online auctions and dealers can be sources of great finds, but be very careful.

Fake items are a very real possibility. To protect your investment, only purchase items that come with a reputable guarantee of authenticity.

Verify any claims that the seller makes about the item.

Displaying Movie Collectibles

One of the biggest challenges that many new collectors face is how to create a display that shows off their new props.

Many people choose to build (or have built for them) glass or Plexiglas cases.

You may want to include a black backdrop to offset your item, and perhaps combine pieces in an eye-catching collection within the same case. Take a look around the internet or visit a Planet Hollywood restaruant or casino for inspiration.

Remember that the most important factor is protection for your item. Your movie props and costumes should never be exposed to extreme temperatures or humidity, or to direct sunlight.

Do not use anything to mount your item that might harm the piece, such as glue, wires or even tape. Choose a display case that can be easily opened for access to the item, but consider locking the case as a deterrent to theft.

Movie collectibles such as props and costumes are highly sought-after prizes for many film fans.

Depending on the item’s popularity, prices can range from just a few dollars into the thousands.

Start slowly, taking your time in considering purchases and buying only those that are relatively inexpensive. As you gain knowledge and confidence, you can begin to add more expensive pieces to your collection.

Movie Collectibles on eBay

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