A T-47 snowspeeder model used in the filming of Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back is up for auction. The model was gifted by George Lucas to Carrie Fisher, and current bids are approaching $15,000.
This item is not a full-size prop used by actors, but a miniature model for on-screen shots, likely smaller than viewers might imagine from the film. Although the T-47 lacks orbital flight capability, it became one of the iconic vehicles of the Star Wars series thanks to its role in tripping AT-AT walkers with tow cables during the Battle of Hoth.
After filming wrapped, Lucas gave the model to Carrie Fisher, who played Princess Leia. The lot also includes a note written by Fisher and co-signed by Mark Hamill, documenting the gift's origin.
Fisher later consigned it to Sotheby's in memory of her mother, Debbie Reynolds, who was dedicated to preserving Hollywood history, with plans to donate the proceeds to that cause. The Heritage Auctions listing initially showed a price of $14,375, and bids had approached $15,000 when the news broke, with about a month remaining until the auction closed.
This lot carries the triple significance of being an original film prop, a gift from Lucas, and part of Fisher's personal collection, with accompanying documentation linking together its provenance.