A haul of boxed vintage Star Wars toys unearthed in Leicestershire are expected to spark worldwide interest at auction.
Some 40 boxed figures – one dating back to 1977 when the first Star Wars film was released – have been uncovered by Derbyshire’s Hansons Auctioneers. Together, they could make up to £5,000 when they go under the hammer at the firm’s June 20 Toy Auction.
David Wilson-Turner, head of the Toy Department at Hansons, said: “There is massive demand for Star Wars memorabilia from fans around the world and Leicestershire has proved to be a brilliant area to find them because the Palitoy factory, which once made the toys, was based in Coalville.
“This latest set of toys has come from a private collector in North West Leicestershire and I’m hoping it will do as well as previous major Star Wars finds in the county.
“For example, last year a selection of 60 vintage Star War toys made by Palitoy more than trebled their original estimate of £2,000-£3,000 to sell for £9,240.
“Many lots had estimates of £40-£60 but sold for hundreds. For example, an original Star Wars Return of the Jedi tri-logo carded action figure, Yak Face, sold for £700 from a £40-60 estimate, and sets of five original vintage Star Wars Stormtroopers made around £400 each.
“When Star Wars toys are untouched and in their original packaging, they’re unmissable for collectors.”
The most valuable toy coming up for auction in June is a 1983 Jedi Yak Face which carries an estimate of £600-£800. Two Han Solo toys have estimates of £60-£100 and £100-£150 respectively while a variety of Princess Leia toys range from £40-£60 to £50-£80. A Power Droid Star Wars toy, made in 1977 when Star Wars was released, has an estimate of £50-£80.
“What we’ve found from experience is that buyers come out in force when a major batch of Star Wars toys come up for auction,” said Mr Wilson-Turner.
Star Wars is a pop culture phenomenon. The trilogy of films has amassed a cult following. There is even an annual Star Wars Day on May 4, sparked by a line from the film, ‘May the Force Be With You’.
“If anyone else in Leicestershire has some original boxed Star War figures to sell and fancy making some money, it’s a perfect time to part with them,” said Mr Wilson-Turner.
“My colleague and fellow toy expert Steve Fulford is doing free valuations in Coalville in April. He can assess all types of vintage and antique toys, dolls and teddies.
Steve Fulford will be at Marlborough Square Methodist Church, Marlborough Square, Coalville, LE67 3WD, on April 16, 10am-1pm. General antiques valuations also available.
The Star Wars collection will be sold in a Toy Auction at Hansons, Heage Lane, Etwall, Derbyshire, on June 20. Entries invited until May 31. To arrange a free valuation, email [email protected].
