How Much Did The Cowardly Lion Costume Sell For?

How Much Did The Cowardly Lion Costume Sell For?

An In-Depth Investigation

The world of pop culture memorabilia is a vast and intricate one, filled with objects that evoke both nostalgia and fascination. Among the most iconic of these items are costumes worn by beloved characters on film and television. One such costume that has captured the imagination of collectors and fans alike is the Cowardly Lion costume from the classic 1939 film The Wizard of Oz.

The Character and the Costume

The Cowardly Lion is one of the four main characters in The Wizard of Oz, along with Dorothy, the Tin Man, and the Scarecrow. He is a large, cowardly lion who yearns for courage. The costume designed for the character by MGM Studios was a masterpiece of artistry and engineering.

Made from a combination of real lion fur, faux fur, and other materials, the costume was both visually stunning and remarkably realistic. The headpiece, in particular, was a marvel of design, featuring animatronic eyes and whiskers that could be controlled by the actor wearing the costume.

The Auction

In 2014, the Cowardly Lion costume was put up for auction by the National Museum of American History, which had acquired it in 1974. The auction was eagerly anticipated by collectors and fans around the world.

The auction took place on November 23, 2014, at Bonhams auction house in New York City. The costume was sold for a staggering $3.077 million, making it one of the most expensive costumes ever sold at auction.

The Buyer

The identity of the buyer of the Cowardly Lion costume was initially kept secret. However, it was later revealed that the costume had been purchased by Jim Pattison, a Canadian businessman and philanthropist.

Pattison is known for his extensive collection of pop culture memorabilia, which includes the original Superman costume worn by Christopher Reeve in the 1978 film Superman.

The Legacy of the Costume

The sale of the Cowardly Lion costume for such a high price is a testament to the enduring popularity of The Wizard of Oz and the iconic status of the character. The costume has become a symbol of both the film and the character it represents.

The costume is currently on display at the Royal British Columbia Museum in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. It is one of the most popular exhibits in the museum and continues to draw visitors from around the world.

Questions and Answers

1. Why is the Cowardly Lion costume so valuable?

The Cowardly Lion costume is valuable because of its iconic status as one of the most recognizable costumes in film history. It is also a rare and unique item, as only a few of the original costumes were made.

2. Where is the Cowardly Lion costume currently located?

The Cowardly Lion costume is currently on display at the Royal British Columbia Museum in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.

3. How much did the Cowardly Lion costume sell for at auction?

The Cowardly Lion costume sold for $3.077 million at auction in 2014.

4. Who bought the Cowardly Lion costume?

The Cowardly Lion costume was purchased by Jim Pattison, a Canadian businessman and philanthropist.

5. What is the significance of the Cowardly Lion character?

The Cowardly Lion is a beloved character who represents the desire for courage and the belief that even the most timid of individuals can overcome their fears.