Rare Star Wars X-wing model shatters records, sells for staggering $31 million at auction

The article was revised with the final sale price and additional details after the conclusion of the auction. A rare and highly sought-after X-wing fighter model, used in the iconic 1977 "Star Wars" film, fetched a staggering amount of over $3.13 million during the auction held on Sunday.

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Used in the filming of the final battle in "Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope" as the Rebel Alliance fight the Empire above the Death Star, the model represented "the pinnacle of Star Wars artifacts to ever reach the market," Dallas-based auction house Heritage Auctions said ahead of the sale.

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Dallas-based auction house Heritage Auctions described the model as the ultimate Star Wars artifact ever made available for sale, used in the filming of the climactic battle featured in "Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope," where the Rebel Alliance fiercely battled against the Empire above the Death Star.

The finely detailed model was used in close-up shots.

Heritage Auctions

The fighter's top two wings bear a distinctive single red stripe, denoting it as the "Red Leader" squadron.

This model is a cherished addition from the collection of the late Greg Jein, a highly acclaimed miniature-maker who received Oscar and Emmy nominations for his outstanding contributions to "Star Trek" and "Close Encounters of the Third Kind."

Long recognized as the elusive X-wing, a team of visual effects specialists, led by Gene Kozicki (known for his work on "Face/Off" and "Flight of the Phoenix"), stumbled upon it while assisting the Jeins family in sorting through their belongings, as stated by Kozicki in an interview with the Hollywood Reporter prior to the upcoming auction.

Having constructed a fully functional, almost life-size 'Star Wars' X-wing fighter, the creator now intends to employ it in aiding Ukraine.

Kozicki stated that this model, which has not been exhibited or altered since it was created by ILM (Industrial Light & Magic), is highly significant for individuals who grew up in the 70s or 80s, as well as for those working in visual effects. Comparable in importance to iconic items like the ruby red slippers or the Maltese Falcon, this 1:24 scale miniature was one of four "hero" models constructed specifically for close-up shots during pivotal moments in the space battle, including scenes of the rebel fleet attempting to annihilate the Death Star during the trench run.

Several simpler "pyro" models were constructed for the purpose of being blown up, in contrast to the more elaborate design of the four "hero" models. The "hero" models showcased intricate painting, wings that could open up into an "Attack Position," a miniature pilot, internal wiring to power lights within the spaceship, and meticulous details like blast marks and heat scorching around the exhaust nozzles.

The Oscar-winning team, Industrial Light & Magic, designed them as per director George Lucas' basic specifications. Lucas aimed to create unique shapes for the final battle, allowing the audience to easily differentiate between the Rebel Alliance and the Empire.

Kozicki mentioned to the Hollywood Reporter that the manner in which Jein acquired this model remains uncertain. He speculates that Jein would occasionally obtain items for potential future trades.

Kozicki mentioned that both Steven Spielberg's "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" and George Lucas's "Star Wars" were being made around the same time, with some of the same people involved. Surprisingly, nobody, not even Spielberg and Lucas themselves, could have predicted the immense impact these films would have on the film industry and the popular culture at that time.

During the auction on Sunday, various other items related to "Star Wars" from Jeins personal collection were also up for sale. This included a complete Stormtrooper costume, also seen in "A New Hope," which was sold for a remarkable $645,000. Additionally, a set of original production scripts was purchased for $27,500.