Liam Neeson’s “Star Wars” lightsaber among movie props going to auction

Liam Neeson’s lightsaber used in “Star Wars: The Phantom Menace” is among a litany of movie props that are going to auction in the US in August.

Propstore will run its Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction - Summer 2024 from August 15 - August 18, with more than 1900 rare and iconic props, costumes, and memorabilia set to go under the hammer.

Among the items is the Lightsaber Hilt used by Qui-Jon Jinn, played by Liam Neeson, in the 1999 smash hit “Star Wars: The Phantom Menace.”

Of lot 390, Propstore says: “Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn (Neeson) wielded his lightsaber against enemies such as battle droids and in his fatal final duel against Darth Maul (Ray Park)."

It added: “Many iterations of lightsabers were designed for 'The Phantom Menace' under the direction of design director Doug Chiang, with each Jedi having a uniquely crafted lightsaber designed to reflect their personality. 

“Neeson personally picked this hilt design for his character.

“This lightsaber hilt is constructed primarily from resin. It has a steel blade emitter (a feature unique to the film's lightsaber props) and features ribbed detailing running from the emitter down to the base, creating a grip.

"It is finished in black and silver-color paint, and a red static activator switch adorns one side. Included is a removable plastic clip for hooking onto a belt. The lightsaber exhibits scuffing and paint chipping throughout, exposing the resin underneath."

The starting bid for the piece of Neeson film memorabilia is $20,000, but Propstore estimates that it will go for between $40,000 and $80,000. 

The “Star Wars” lightsaber hilt isn’t the only prop associated with Neeson in the upcoming auction.

Lot 1294 features the costume Neeson wore as the titular character in Michael Caton-Jones' 1995 flick “Rob Roy.”

The costume, with a starting bid of $1,250, consists of a cream wool long-sleeve tunic; a red and blue plaid wool tartan kilt with a burlap waistband and off-white nylon strings to tie it closed; and a red and blue plaid wool tartan fly plaid. 

Also set to go under the hammer is a display of the distressed hat and coat Neeson wore in Sam Raimi's “Darkman." Lot 737 has a starting bid of $1,500.

Meanwhile, lot 581 features the stunt katana used by Bruce Wayne, portrayed by Christian Bale, in Christopher Nolan’s “Batman Begins.”

“Wayne wielded his katana while training with Henri Ducard (Liam Neeson) and the League of Shadows on a frozen lake,” Propstore notes.

The stunt katana has a starting bid of $1,500, but is expected to go for between $3,000 and $6,000. 

Elsewhere in the massive memorabilia auction, several of Irish actor Pierce Brosnan's "James Bond" are up for grabs, including his stunt revolver, stunt leather jacket, and an OMEGA Seamaster watch of the same model worn by 007.

Lot 1851 features the costume worn by veteran Irish actor Brendan Gleeson in "Troy," with a starting bid of $750.

If you're interested in picking up an Oscar-winning prop, lot 1233 is an FBI file made for J. Robert Oppenheimer, played by Cork native Cillian Murphy, for Christopher Nolan's 2023 blockbuster "Oppenheimer." 

Commenting on the upcoming auction, Brandon Alinger, chief operating officer of Propstore, told the PA: “This is Propstore Los Angeles’ second Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction of 2024, and the sale represents another incredible opportunity for movie fans to own a piece of cinematic history.

“From Indiana Jones’ classic fedora from 'Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom,' to the Biker Scout Helmet from 'Star Wars: Return of the Jedi,' each item carries its own significant story and history.

“Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to memorabilia collecting, this event promises something extraordinary for everyone.”