Star Wars lightsaber could fetch $3m in auction

The prop from Star Wars is being auctioned in Los Angeles in September

A lightsaber used by Darth Vader in the original Star Wars films could fetch up to $3m (£2.25m) when it goes up for auction.

Auctioneer Propstore, based in Chenies, Buckinghamshire, said the movie relic will be on offer in a live sale in Los Angeles between 4 and 6 September.

The weapon - which featured in films The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi - is estimated to go for at least $1m (£750,000) and could be snapped up for three times that figure.

Brandon Alinger, Propstore's chief operating officer, said: "This is the first time that an authentic, screen-matched lightsaber has come to public auction and represents an incredible opportunity for serious collectors and film fans."

It was used during filming at Elstree Studios

The prop was used during extensive filming at Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire but has been in the US for many years, Mr Alinger said.

He added the laser-sword weapon will be returning to the UK for the first time this August as part of a public exhibition.

The auctioneer's previous highest seller was a $1.9m (£1.4m) hammer price for an original X-wing fighter model in 2022.

Mr Alinger described the lightsaber as "one of the most recognised props in the history of film".

He said: "There are a small number of other genuine lightsabers in private collections; there are two other known hero-quality lightsabers – a hilt used by Luke Skywalker, and a hilt used by Darth Vader.

"These pieces are known to exist amongst the collecting community but have never come to public auction."

A Batman suit from the 1989 Tim Burton film is also part of the auction

Although the auction is taking place in California, many of the lots are from UK productions, including the Star Was prop, used on set at Elstree Studios.

Elstree was also the studio used for 1989 film Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

A bullwhip, belt and holster made for Harrison Ford is also up for auction and estimated to get between $250,000 (£186,567) and $500,000 (£373,134).

A Batman costume from the Michael Keaton film released in the same year, shot at nearby Pinewood Studios in Buckinghamshire, carries the same estimate.

Filming has already started on a new Harry Potter reboot at Warner Bros Leavesden, but a Platform 9 3/4 sign used in several of the original films could get between $20,000 (£14,925) and $40,000 (£29,850).

Some television memorabilia is also available: a flute from popular Star Trek: The Next Generation episode The Inner Light is expected to fetch between $250,000 (£186,567) and $500,000 (£373,134).

Harry Potter's wand from The Prisoner of Azkaban is expected to sell for at least $30,000 (£22,388) when it is sold alongside a map prop

Mr Alinger added: "We've assembled one of the most impressive selections of authentic props and costumes ever brought to market.

"Whether it's the craftsmanship of an original Batsuit [or] the power of a Star Wars lightsaber, each item tells a story.

"We're proud to offer this exceptional collection and to give collectors and fans a rare opportunity to claim a tangible piece of the films and shows that shaped our imaginations."