Heritage Auctions held a high-profile auction of props and costumes from the hit HBO series Game of Thrones, which netted over $21 million in a stunning display of fan devotion. More than 4,500 bidders from around the world competed for over 2,000 pieces of Westeros history, resulting in some intense bid wars.
The star of the show was undoubtedly the original touring Iron Throne, a plastic masterpiece embellished with jewels to resemble the legendary seat forged from the swords of vanquished foes. After a nearly six-minute back-and-forth between determined collectors, the throne finally sold for an astounding $1.49 million, eliciting thunderous applause from the auction room.
“From the moment we launched the Game of Thrones auction in September, it was clear this was going to resonate with everyone,” said Heritage Auctions Executive Vice President Joe Maddalena. “These are extraordinary treasures made by Emmy-winning costume designers and prop makers, who worked tirelessly to adapt George R.R. Martin’s wonderful novels. People wanted a piece of that Game of Thrones magic, and we are honored to have been part of what designer Michele Clapton calls these costumes and props’ afterlives.”
Other high-ticket items included the Valyrian steel sword Longclaw, used by fan-favorite character Jon Snow, which fetched $400,000—the second most expensive item sold. Snow’s fur ensemble from his perilous journey “Beyond the Wall” in season 7, complete with a lighter version of Longclaw, went for $137,500.
The frenzied bidding extended to a wide range of iconic props and costumes. Jaime Lannister’s black leather armor ensemble commanded $275,000, while his full Kingsguard armor with the Oathkeeper longsword sold for $212,500. Arya Stark’s boy ensemble, including her famous “Needle” sword, realized $150,000.
Daenerys Targaryen also made a significant impact, as her white-and-gray arctic rabbit fur coat, which she wore when she and her dragons rescued Jon Snow’s party, brought in $156,250. The two dragon eggs presented to Daenerys upon her wedding to Khal Drogo fetched $93,750 and $100,000, respectively.
Even smaller items, such as the steel dagger Arya used to bring down the Night King, opened at $46,000 and ultimately sold for $93,750, demonstrating the insatiable demand for these coveted pieces of television history.
“We are so pleased with the result of this auction for some of the most iconic Game of Thrones memorabilia,” said Janet Graham Borba, HBO’s Executive Vice President of Production. “These fans continue to be passionate collectors, and we are grateful to them and our partners at Heritage for making this a giant success.”
In total, the three-day auction event realized $21,115,718, making it the second-highest entertainment auction in Heritage’s history, trailing only the $22.8 million Debbie Reynolds event held in 2011. The sale included more than 900 lots, with 32 props earning six-figure price tags from devoted fans.
“These are the last remnants of a pop culture phenomenon that captivated audiences for nearly a decade,” Maddalena added. “It’s not surprising that fans are prepared to pay high prices to possess a piece of that legacy.”
As the final credits of one of the most successful television series of all time unfold, it’s evident that the community of Game of Thrones enthusiasts remains vibrant and prepared to fight for the opportunity to possess a tangible piece of the Seven Kingdoms.