Princess Leia’s Gold Bikini Sells for $175,000
The gold bikini worn by Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia in 1983’s Return of the Jedi has sold at auction for $175,000. Designed by Richard Miller, the seven-piece ensemble was a pivotal part of the film’s memorable scenes.
Fisher had mixed feelings about the costume, revealing that she thought George Lucas was “kidding” when he first showed it to her. Despite her reservations, the bikini has become one of the most famous costumes in film history.
The sale was part of a larger auction by Heritage Auctions, featuring iconic movie memorabilia. A miniature Y-Wing Starfighter from A New Hope sold for $1.55 million, while a movie poster from Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home fetched $106,250.
Other notable sales included a Thor hammer from Marvel’s Thor: The Dark World ($81,250), a Mandalorian helmet ($40,000), Daniel Radcliffe’s wand from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban ($52,000), and Macaulay Culkin’s outfit from Home Alone ($47,500).
This sale marks the second time Princess Leia’s bikini has been sold at auction, previously fetching $96,000 in 2015. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the impact of Star Wars on popular culture.
Carrie Fisher’s iconic performance as Princess Leia continues to inspire fans worldwide. The sale of her gold bikini serves as a reminder of the character’s lasting influence on film and fashion. As a cultural touchstone, Princess Leia’s image remains an integral part of our shared pop culture heritage.
Re-reported from the article originally published in THE GUARDIAN.