Superman Costumes in the Marketplace Archive: April – July 2010

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”. Read more

More Examples of ‘Western Costume’ Letters of Authentication Dated 12/29/75 for George Reeves Superman TV Series Wardrobe Pieces

Last week, an Original Prop Blog article revisited a 2008 feature (see …Questions, Observations) which archived marketing collateral regarding a George Reeves Superman wardrobe piece with a Western Costume Company letter.  The new article (see Signature Comparison…) compared the letter and signature to a similar letter attached to a Superman cape offered for public sale on eBay .  I’ve since received photos of three additional Western Costume letters bearing the signature of Robert Niewoehner with the same date: December 29, 1975.

Read more

Signature Comparison: ‘Western Costume’ Letters of Authentication for George Reeves Superman TV Series Capes Dated 12/29/75

In 2008, an article was published on the Original Prop Blog with regards to certain props and costumes consigned to a Signature House auction (see Signature House Entertainment Memorabilia Auctions – Questions, Observations).  Included were questions raised about the remarkable coincidence of two letters of authentication included with two different capes (attributed to use by George Reeves in the Superman television series produced in the 1950s) from two different dealers; both letters shared the same date: December 29, 1975.  A third such letter – with the same date – has now been introduced into the marketplace.  This third example bears a signature that appears to differ from the example featured in the 2008 article. Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace Archive: March 2010

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”. Read more

Superman Costume Collection Pulled From Upcoming ‘Morphy Auctions’ Sale Event

Earlier this month, Morphy Auctions listed a large collection of more than a dozen Superman-related principal costume and wardrobe pieces in their online catalog for their late February 2010 sale event.  As was the case with an unrelated auction last year (see Philip Weiss Auctions Cancels “Special Superhero Weekend”), it would appear that all items have been pulled from their upcoming sale. Read more

The Superman Cape Authentication Challenge: Consign with a Reputable Movie Prop & Costume Dealer or Auction House

The seller of a wardrobe piece featured in one of the recent and regular “Superman Costumes in the Marketplace Archive” articles (see December 2009) made a “Reader Comment” in response to the feature about his public “for sale” offering on eBay.  The owner of the “Super Hollywood” sourced and authenticated Superman cape has posted an open request for authentication.  Conversely, given that he purchased the item and now seeks to sell it, I would challenge him to query some of the reputable auction houses and dealers that make a regular business of selling original movie props and costumes to see which of them would take the piece on consignment. Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace Archive: December 2009

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”. Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace Archive: November 2009, Part 2

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”. Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace Archive: November 2009, Part 1

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”. Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace Archive: October 2009

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”. Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace Archive: September 2009

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”. Read more

Authentic Superman Costume Fabric “DNA”: Extreme High Resolution Photography

With my recent trip to Burbank, to compare “Super Hollywood” Superman costumes with confirmed authentic examples from the Warner Bros. archives, I had a very limited window of time with which to take photographs of the costumes and produce comparisons.  While I did take over 700 digital photos, I did not get every shot I would have liked to have obtained. Read more

Bonhams & Goodman in Australia Sell Incomplete Superman Costume for $21,000 at Auction

Bonhams & Goodman of Australia held a toy and memorabilia auction on Sunday which included a partial Superman costume attributed to the films of the 70s and 80s starring Christopher Reeve.  This set realized a hammer price of $22,500 Australia Dollars, or about $27,000 including Buyer’s Premium (or about $17,500/$21,000 USD). Read more

“Costume Junkie” Returns “Super Hollywood” Superman Costume To Marketplace on eBay

One of the costumes archived in the very first of over 100 Superman costume-related articles, more than a year ago, was a “Super Hollywood” costume offered for sale on eBay by Edward Pugia (AKA “Costume Junkie”).  This costume was again listed for sale via the “costumejunkie” account on eBay this weekend. Read more

Armando Alvarez’s Super Hollywood “super38” eBay Account NARU Status (Not A Registered User)

Armando Alvarez’s (AKA “Super Hollywood) “super38″ eBay Power Seller account has been changed to the eBay status of “No Longer A Registered User” / “Not A Registered User” (NARU). Read more

Superman Costume Comparative Analysis: Warner Bros. Archive, Authenticated vs. “Super Hollywood”

I started asking questions about Superman costumes in the marketplace, attributed to the Christopher Reeve films of the 70s and 80s, over two years ago.  Since, I have published over 100 related articles, asking questions and sharing information and insights – all in an attempt to bring clarity to the marketplace and empower collectors and other interested parties with more information with which to make their own assessments and conclusions.  Read more

“Hands On” Superman Costume Comparative Analysis In Development: Warner Bros. Archive, Authenticated vs. “Super Hollywood”

I spent the day in Burbank yesterday, performing a “hands on” analysis and comparison of confirmed authentic costumes (two recently released from the Warner Bros. Archives) from multiple Superman films starring Christopher Reeve (Superman II, III, and IV) with the three “Super Hollywood” costumes examined in a recent article (see “Super Hollywood” Superman III Costume Case Study: High Resolution Photo Archive & Analysis).  A substantive article is under development that will include the results of this analysis and high resolution comparison photos. Read more

“Super Hollywood” Superman III Costume Case Study: High Resolution Photo Archive & Analysis

This marks the 100th article related to Superman costumes in the marketplace characterized as “original”.  This article includes hands on analysis and a new archive of high resolution photos of a Superman costume sold by Armando Alvarez (“Super Hollywood”) and accompanying provenance and eBay and PayPal transaction records from the buyer.  This new material is also compared directly with other “Super Hollywood” costumes which have been archived previously.  Read more

Superman Costume Tracking Matrices [Version 2.0]

This work product is part of the ongoing series of articles about Superman costumes in the marketplace, tracking public auction house, dealer and dealer websites, and public eBay listings of costume items attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s (see category Market Watch | Superman). Read more

Super Hollywood “Gift” Letter of Authenticity Archive (Armando Alvarez, Ana Mungia)

Over the past two years, I have archived a number of examples of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic” that include provenance from “Super Hollywood” (signed by both Armando Alvarez and Ana Mungia). Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: April 2009

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”.  Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: March 2009

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”. Read more

Celebrity Organizer Tim Gardner Pleads Guilty in Screaming Tiki Comic Con Case

As reported on in previous articles, Screaming Tiki Comic and Pop Culture Convention promoter Peter Smith filed a complaint which resulted in criminal charges against event celebrity organizer Tim Gardner.  Based on public access docket records from the Mahoning County Integrated Justice System website, Mr. Gardner plead guilty yesterday. Read more

City of Metropolis Claims Tim Gardner “Did Not Fulfill Obligations” With Regards to $82,000 In Grant Money

The Paducah Sun has published two articles about the renamed “Metropolis Comic Book and Toy Show” and the City’s reported dissatisfaction with former promoter Tim Gardner’s accounting of $82,000 in grant money intended to fund and benefit tourism.  Jim Hambrick of the “Super Museum” has also recently been elected Treasurer of the Metropolis Area Tourism Commission Read more

Jim Hambrick’s “Americana Hollywood Museum”: First Party Damage Appraisal at $111,500

In January, WSIL-TV Channel 3 and KFVS Channel 12 each broadcast reports about Jim Hambrick’s “Americana Hollywood Museum” being flooded due to a broken pipe, with Mr. Hambrick estimating over $100,000 in damages.  Today, The Paducah Sun updates the story with Mr. Hambrick declaring $111,500.00 in memorabilia damage. Read more

Superman Costume Market Watch & Analysis: More On Antiquities of Las Vegas, Super Hollywood, Ana Mugia, MGM Studios

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”.  Read more

Superman Costume Matrix: eBay Listing Public Offerings, Version 1.3

This work product is part of the ongoing series of articles about Superman costumes in the marketplace, tracking public eBay listing sales of costume items attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s (see category Market Watch : Superman). Read more

Superman Costume Matrix: Auction House/Dealer Website Public Offerings, Version 1.6

This work product is part of the ongoing series of articles about Superman costumes in the marketplace, tracking public auction house sales of costume items attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s (see category Market Watch : Superman). Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: February 2009, Part 2

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”. Read more

Philip Weiss Auctions Cancels “Special Superhero Weekend”

The Philip Weiss website has been advertising a “Special Superhero Weekend” auction event for about a month, with highlights noted as “The Dane Nash Collection” of Superman costumes “originally purchased from Jim Hambrick”.  Per the website, this auction event has been canceled, with no further details or explanation. Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: February 2009, Part 1

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”. Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: January 2009, Part 2

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”.

Read more

Jim Hambrick’s “Americana Hollywood Museum”: Additional News Coverage

Yesterday WSIL-TV Channel 3 in Southern Illinois broadcast a report about Jim Hambrick’s “Americana Hollywood Museum” being flooded over the weekend due to a broken pipe.  A second report broadcast by KFVS Channel 12 surfaced on the Internet today with similar coverage emphasizing Mr. Hambrick’s report of over $100,000 in damages. Read more

Jim Hambrick’s “Americana Hollywood Museum” Flooded, Reports Over $100,000 In Damages

WSIL-TV Channel 3 in Southern Illinois broadcast a report about Jim Hambrick’s “Americana Hollywood Museum” being flooded over the weekend due to a broken pipe.  In the video and an associated news feature with reporting by the Paducah Sun, Mr. Hambrick reports over $100,000 in damages “to talk to the insurance company about”. Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: January 2009, Part 1

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”.

Read more

Original Prop Hobby – 2008 Year in Review

As was the case last year (see 2007 Year in Review), what follows is an editorial review of my personal views with regards to the hobby, looking back at the top trends and news stories of 2008.  As always, there were a lot of interesting developments and events, and quite a bit to review and consider. Read more

Tim Gardner Threatens Lawsuit Against The Original Prop Blog

I received the following e-mail yesterday from someone identifying himself as Tim Gardner (“Planet Superhero”), threatening a lawsuit against Original Prop Blog, LLC. Read more

Government Auction “Original” Christopher Reeve Superman Costume Sells for Over $100,000.00

As noted last week (see Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: December 2008, Part 2), GovernmentAuction.com offered for sale a Superman costume marketed as “original” and “worn by Christopher Reeve” in the movie, Superman.  Today this costume sold at public auction for $92,200.00 ($101,420.00 including the 10% Buyer’s Premium).  Read more

Superman Costume Matrix: Auction House/Dealer Website Public Offerings, Version 1.5

This work product is part of the ongoing series of articles about Superman costumes in the marketplace, tracking public auction house sales of costume items attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s (see category Market Watch : Superman). Read more

Superman Costume Matrix: eBay Listing Public Offerings, Version 1.2

This work product is part of the ongoing series of articles about Superman costumes in the marketplace, tracking public eBay listing sales of costume items attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s (see category Market Watch : Superman). Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: December 2008, Part 2

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”.

Read more

Screaming Tiki Con Promoter Peter Smith Files Complaint Against Celebrity Organizer Tim Gardner

Ohio’s Tribute Chronicle (see TribToday.com) published two articles in recent weeks about a dispute between Screaming Tiki Comic and Pop Culture Convention promoter Peter Smith and celebrity organizer Tim Gardner.  The news organization reports that Mr. Smith filed a complaint which resulted in criminal charges being filed against Mr. Gardner. Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: December 2008

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”.

Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: November 2008

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”.  Read more

Leland’s “Superman II Cape” (November 2008 Auction)

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”.  Read more

High Resolution Photo Reference Archive: Super Hollywood “Superman/Superboy Reference Costume”

This is a companion article to several previous features.  This article includes an archive of high resolution photos of the costume previously designated the “Superman/Superboy Reference Costume”.  In addition to photos of the costume itself, photos and analysis of the accompanying Super Hollywood (super38, Armando Alvarez, Ana Mungia) Letter of Authenticity also follows below. Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: October 2008

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”.  Read more

Superman Costume Matrix: eBay Listing Public Offerings, Version 1.1

This work product is part of the ongoing series of articles about Superman costumes in the marketplace, tracking public eBay listing sales of costume items attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s (see category Market Watch : Superman). Read more

Superman Costume Matrix: Auction House/Dealer Website Public Offerings, Version 1.4

This work product is part of the ongoing series of articles about Superman costumes in the marketplace, tracking public auction house sales of costume items attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s (see category Market Watch : Superman). Read more

Multiple Topic Update: Signature House Auction, Recent Superman Auctions, Les Hemstock (“kcotsmeh”)

This is an update to a variety of recent topics and articles covering the Signature House memorabilia auction as well as public auctions for various Superman-related wardrobe pieces offered in the last month. Read more

Signature House Entertainment Memorabilia Auctions – Questions, Observations

Signature House (on eBay and their own website) is offering a number of movie and television props and wardrobe items for sale on eBay Live Auctions, in their Auction XXXV – Autographs & Memorabilia Auction, with live bidding on October 11-12, 2008.  Read more

“One of a Kind” Krypton Baby Superman Blanket – Update

This is an update to the original article – “One of a Kind” Krypton Baby Superman Blanket – posted a few days ago.  In the last report, eBay seller “fearlessgreen” had listed an “original” and “one of a kind” blanket attributed to use in Superman: The Movie.  Read more

“One of a Kind” Krypton Baby Superman Blanket

eBay seller “fearlessgreen” has listed an “original” and “one of a kind” blanket attributed to use in Superman: The Movie.  While I have generally limited my Superman-related articles to the costumes, this is one example in which a claim is contrary to evidence from prior public auctions, as well as adds another example to the ongoing Bermans and Nathans asset tag analysis (see Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: Bermans & Nathans Wardrobe Tag Analysis). Read more

High Resolution Photo Reference Archive: “Super Hollywood” Superman Costume Photo Comparison

In January 2008, a costume offered for sale on eBay was described as an “Authentic Original Costume” worn in Superman: The Movie by Christopher Reeve, which was supported by the “Super Hollywood” Letter of Authenticity that accompanied it.  This auction was archived in Original Prop Blog articles at the time (see Questions About Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: Update & Update 2).  Read more

Superman “Clark Kent” Suit, Bermans & Nathans Wardrobe Tag Analysis

A costume was listed on eBay yesterday, attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the film, Superman: The Movie.  This wardrobe set, which “CAME FROM A HIGH PROFILED COLLECTOR WITH LETTER OF AUTHENTICITY”, has a Berman & Nathans asset tag that resembles those reviewed in a previous article (see Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: Bermans & Nathans Wardrobe Tag Analysis). Read more

Standard Resolution Still Image Reference Archive: Superman IV (1987)

This article provides an archive of stills from the film, Superman IV: The Quest for Peace.  This film is not available in any high definition (HD DVD or Blu-Ray) disc format, so these captures are in standard definition (1079×607), as was the case with Superman III (see Reference Archive: Superman III). Read more

Standard Resolution Still Image Reference Archive: Superman III (1983)

This article provides an archive of stills from the film, Superman III.  This film is not available in any high definition (HD DVD or Blu-Ray) disc format, so these captures are in standard definition (1153×649). Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: August 2008, Part 3

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”.  Read more

“ComicLink”/”Super Museum” Superman Costume: Auction Outcome Update

Tonight the auction for the Superman costume offered for sale at public auction by “ComicLink.com” with the Letter of Authenticity from Jim Hambrick of the Super Museum ended with 33 bids for a price realized of $3,600, though the unstated reserve was not met.  Read more

The Definitive Original Superman Costume Primer by Martin Lakin at CapedWonder.com

Jim Bowers of CapedWonder.com informed me of a new article by Martin Lakin (with Chris King) published on his site today – IS IT SILK? IS IT PLASTIC?: A Study of the ‘Superman’ Movie Costumes 1978-1987.  This study is, in my opinion, the definitive primer on original Superman costumes from the Christopher Reeve films of the 70s and 80s.  It is well-written, remarkably well-researched, rich with information and details, and presented as an excellent all-in-one overview resource.  Read more

More from Jim Hambrick (Super Museum / Supermuseum)

I have received another e-mail message from Jim Hambrick with regard to the questions about the Superman costume currently at auction with “ComicLink” citing as provenance the notarized Letter of Authenticity signed by Jim Hambrick, Supermuseum (LINK).  Read more

Response to Jim Hambrick (Super Museum / Supermuseum) Message

Below is the reaction to Jim Hambrick’s message published Friday (see Response from Jim Hambrick (Supermuseum / Super Museum)…).  This response is limited in scope to a few specific points that are on topic with the original article (see “ComicLink” Superman Costume Auction…). Read more

Response from Jim Hambrick (Super Museum / Supermuseum) Regarding Questions About Original Superman Costumes in the Marketplace

I have received the e-mail message below with regard to my direct invitation to Mr. Hambrick to publicly respond to the questions raised in the article published Wednesday (see “ComicLink” Superman Costume Auction & Questions for Jim Hambrick (Super Museum / Supermuseum)) about the Superman costume offered for sale at public auction by “ComicLink.com” with the Letter of Authenticity from Jim Hambrick, Supermuseum: Read more

High Resolution Still Image Reference Archive: Superman (1978)

I have archived an assortment of screencaptures/screencaps/stills from the film Superman II in high resolution format (see Reference Archive: Superman II) to serve as a reference in the ongoing series of articles about costumes in the marketplace attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s.  This companion article provides an archive of stills from the original film, Superman: The Movie. Read more

High Resolution Still Image Reference Archive: Superman II (1980)

I have archived an assortment of screencaptures/screencaps/stills from the film Superman II in high resolution format to serve as a reference in the ongoing series of articles about costumes in the marketplace attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s.  Read more

“ComicLink” Superman Costume Auction & Questions for Jim Hambrick (Super Museum / Supermuseum)

A few collectors have directed my attention to an active auction on the website ComicLink.com, for a “Superman III” costume with a notarized “Letter of Authenticity” from Jim Hambrick of the “Super Museum” (also referred to as “Supermuseum”).  Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: August 2008, Part 2

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”.  Read more

Superman Costume Matrix: eBay Listing Public Offerings, Version 1.0

This work product is part of the ongoing series of articles about Superman costumes in the marketplace, tracking public eBay listing sales of costume items attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s (see “Questions About Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: Authenticity, Sources, Quantity“).  Read more

Superman Costume Matrix: Auction House/Dealer Website Public Offerings, Version 1.3

This work product is part of the ongoing series of articles about Superman costumes in the marketplace, tracking public auction house sales of costume items attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s (see “Questions About Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: Authenticity, Sources, Quantity“). Read more

Superman Costume Color Analysis & Reference: BLUE

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”.   As part of the ongoing analysis, and in buidling tools to assist with authenticating costumes currently in the marketplace, I thought it would be productive to analyze the colors of the costume, and establish benchmarks using confirmed authentic costumes as reference.

Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: August 2008, Part 1

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”.  Read more

Profiles in History “Complete Superman: The Movie Costume” (July/August 2008 Auction)

The upcoming Profiles in History “Auction 32″ event is set for July 31 & August 1 at the Profiles offices in Calabassas Hills. This sale features a complete Superman costume attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in Superman: The Movie and Superman II. Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace Retrospective: “Deal or No Deal” (1qq) Costume

This is an archive of one of the Superman costumes previously offered in the marketplace, on eBay, that has not been captured in prior articles. As is the case with other articles, this serves to archive listings of costumes marketed as “original” and “authentic”, worn by Christopher Reeves in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s. Read more

Chris Alleaume (“calleaume”/”allchris”/”Barbara”/”bhilton01″) Update Regarding Superman, Greatest American Hero

This is an update to three previous articles related to the selling activity of Chris Alleaume (who sells on eBay as “calleaume“) and his connections to another seller, “Barbara” (and the eBay account “bhilton01“), as related to auction listings for a Greatest American Hero costume and Superman costume auctions. Read more

Superman Costume Matrix: Auction House/Dealer Website Public Offerings, Version 1.2

This work product is part of the ongoing series of articles about Superman costumes in the marketplace, tracking public auction house sales of costume items attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s (see “Questions About Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: Authenticity, Sources, Quantity“). Read more

Superman Celebration 2006 & 2008 Auctions: “Disney MGM Studios”?

A collector has sent me photos from the “Superman Celebration 2006″ and Superman Celebration 2008″ events, both of which featured live auctions for Superman costumes/costume parts marketed as original and authentic from the Superman films of the 70s and 80s staring Christopher Reeve.  Interestingly, these auctions and costume parts relate back to previous OPB articles. Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: Bermans & Nathans Wardrobe Tag Analysis

Bermans & Nathans of England (acquired by Angels Costumiers in 1992) made the costumes worn by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 1970s and 1980s.  As such, one of the components of provenance and authenticity are the wardrobe or asset tags affixed to costumes at the time of production.  Of the confirmed authentic costumes I am aware of, these pieces have wardrobe tags.  However, some costumes which have been trading in the marketplace exhibit tags that are not consistent with photos of authentic tags I have assembled for my own reference. Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: June 2008, Part 3

This article continues coverage of Superman costumes and costume components offered for sale publicly in the marketplace attributed to use in the Superman films of the 70s-80s starring Christopher Reeve and characterized as “original” and “authentic”.  For all such items listed in June 2008, via eBay and auction house events, please also reference these articles: Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: June 2008, Part 2

It’s only been a few days since “Part 1” of the look at Superman costumes offered for sale in the marketplace this month, but I’ve come across a few more eBay listings. Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace Retrospective: billybats11 “Evil” Costume

This is an archive of one of the Superman costumes previously offered in the marketplace, on eBay, that has not been captured in prior articles. As is the case with other articles, this serves to archive listings of costumes marketed as “original” and “authentic”, worn by Christopher Reeves in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s. Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: June 2008, Part 1

Though we are just at the start of June, I decided to begin coverage of Superman costumes offered for sale publicly in the marketplace now, as it will serve as reference for future articles. This is “Part 1″ in that I expect, should trends prove consistent, that additional auctions will warrant further coverage, as will follow-up. Read more

Christie’s “Superman III Cape” (June 2008 Auction)

The upcoming Christie’s Pop Culture auction (Sale 21633) is set for June 25th at Rockefeller Center in New York as part of their “Popular Culture” category (see article). This sale features a Superman costume component attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in Superman III. Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: February-May 2008 eBay Recap

This is an update of the outcome of the Superman costumes offered for sale on eBay via auction in the last two updates (see “Superman Costumes in the Marketplace Round-Up: April, May“, “Superman Costumes in the Marketplace Round-Up: February, March, April“).

Read more

Bonhams “Superman IV Flying Suit” (June 2008 Auction)

The upcoming Bonhams June 18, 2008 “Entertainment Memorabilia” auction held at Knightsbridge (see article) features a Superman costume attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the fourth installment of the film series, Superman IV: The Quest for Peace.

The Bonhams site features Flash technology so that interested parties can zoom in on the supplied photo for more detail; while time consuming, it is possible to then piece together a larger, higher resolution photo using Photoshop, which I have done to take a closer look at this costume.

It is part of Sale 15801, Lot 108: LINK Read more

Egeskov Castle Superman Costume(s): “Walking”, “Flying”

I recently came across a photo of a Superman costume on display at the Egeskov castle in Denmark, and through further investigation, found additional information – on display and photographed – pertaining to its origins and provenance. Read more

Superman Costume Matrix: Auction House/Dealer Website Public Offerings, Version 1.1

This work product is part of the ongoing series of articles about costumes in the marketplace attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s (see “Questions About Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: Authenticity, Sources, Quantity“).

What I have attempted to do is catalog the costumes offered for sale to the public by auction houses and by prop dealers on their commercial websites.

The following matrix is an update to the one published last month as version 1.0 (see Version 1.0 article). Read more

Superman, Superboy, and Disney’s Creative Costuming

Those readers who have followed the ongoing series of articles about Superman costume/costume components offered for sale, attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s, will have likely noted that many costumes circulating in the marketplace are marketed as having previously been used as reference pieces in the production of similar costumes for the Superboy (AKA Adventures of Superboy) television series, which ran in syndication from 1988-1992 (four seasons).

Of those costumes listed in the Superman Costume Matrix: Auction House/Dealer Website Public Offerings (ver 1.0, 04/04/08), I count nine (9) costumes which are noted (explicitly or implied by source) as reference costumes for the Superboy television series. This does not reflect the number of additional costumes circulating in the marketplace on eBay that have also been described as former reference costumes for the Superboy television series (see prior articles).

Many of the costumes that are characterized as original Berman’s & Nathan’s produced Superman costumes worn by Christopher Reeve, used as reference by Disney’s “Creative Costuming” as part of the provenance, have letters/LOAs/COAs from “Super Hollywood”, signed by either Ana Mungia or Armando Alvarez. Many are also characterized as “gifts” from the Salkinds (producers of the films and television series). Read more

Superman Publicity Photo in Bonhams Auction

The upcoming Bonhams auction (see “Bonhams: Entertainment Memorabilia Auction – Los Angeles, June 16, 2008“) offers a book of original prints of Christopher Reeve as Superman in the 1978 film (see Sale 16091, Lot 3146).

With Bonhams’ Flash-based photo viewer, one is able to zoom and piece together high resolution photos, and the photo provided in the auction shows a great amount of detail in the costume, in spite of its lack of color: Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace Round-Up: April, May

There has been a few Superman costume/costume component auctions offered publicly in the marketplace via eBay since the last OPB updates in early April. This is part of the ongoing series of articles about costumes in the marketplace attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s (see “Questions About Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: Authenticity, Sources, Quantity“).

These are new auction listings since the last update, about one month ago (see “Superman Costumes in the Marketplace Round-Up: February, March, April“). Some have been relisted multiple times. Read more

Heritage Auction Galleries Forms Media and Client Relations Division

Excerpts from a Heritage Auction Galleries press release (found at news-antique.com): Read more

“Prop Store Collection” Superman Costume, Fabric Discussion Continued, Part 3

This is part of the ongoing series of articles about costumes in the marketplace attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s (see “Questions About Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: Authenticity, Sources, Quantity“).

As previously discussed, The Prop Store of London, which recently sold an original Superman costume with a Certificate of Authenticity from Warner Bros. (see “Authentic Superman Costume In The Marketplace – The Prop Store of London“), has recently showcased a complete costume on their website (currently on display at the Movieum of London – see related article). Read more

Superman Costumes in the Marketplace Round-Up: February, March, April

There has been a number of Superman costumes and costume components offered publicly in the marketplace via eBay since the last OPB updates in late January/early February. This is part of the ongoing series of articles about costumes in the marketplace attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s (see “Questions About Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: Authenticity, Sources, Quantity“).

Here are the auctions since the start of February 2008. Some have been relisted one or more times. Read more

“Prop Store Collection” Superman Costume, Fabric Discussion Continued, Part 2

This is part of the ongoing series of articles about costumes in the marketplace attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s (see “Questions About Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: Authenticity, Sources, Quantity“).

The Prop Store of London, which recently sold an original Superman costume with a Certificate of Authenticity from Warner Bros. (see “Authentic Superman Costume In The Marketplace – The Prop Store of London“), has recently showcased a complete costume on their website (currently on display at the Movieum of London – see related article). Read more

Superman Costume in the Marketplace – “Antiquities” in Las Vegas

An original prop collector sent me some photos taken on a trip to Las Vegas recently, of a Superman costume attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s. This is currently available for sale to the public at “Antiquities: The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace”. Read more

Superman Costume Matrix: Auction House/Dealer Website Public Offerings, Version 1.0

This work product is part of the ongoing series of articles about costumes in the marketplace attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s (see “Questions About Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: Authenticity, Sources, Quantity“).

What I have attempted to do is catalog the costumes offered for sale to the public by auction houses and by prop dealers on their commercial websites.

I have tried to capture as much of the key details of these offerings as possible to populate a matrix in an effort to share information with collectors about what has been offered for sale and the attributes of those costumes and costume parts. This also offers an opportunity to compare and contrast some of the characteristics of these costumes. Some also appear to have been sold and resold (based on matching wardrobe tags, for instance), as noted in the document.

Obviously, I am at the mercy of the quality and accuracy of the information used to market these pieces by auction houses, dealers, and their consignors, as applicable. In some cases, the information provided is vague and imprecise, so I would ask anyone using this document to please keep all of this in mind and to perform your own due diligence and verify all information to your own standards. I have not verified any of the information presented or claimed via the marketing and advertising of these pieces beyond what was noted in the applicable auction catalog and/or website. Read more

Collectors Seek Information About Superman Belt, Superman Cape

I’ve been in contact with two collectors who are seeking more information about the provenance and authenticity of their Superman costume parts.

The two collectors have sent me photos to publish on the Original Prop Blog as part of the ongoing series of articles about costumes in the marketplace attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s (see “Questions About Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: Authenticity, Sources, Quantity“). Read more

Reader Comment: Collector Seeks Contact with Salkinds, Warner Bros.

A collector contacted me recently to discuss a costume he has listed on eBay marketed as a Superman III costume. He has asked for assistance in authenticating the suit, and has posted the “Reader Comment” below in the original article (see “Questions About Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: Authenticity, Sources, Quantity“) that initiated my ongoing series of articles about costumes in the marketplace attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s. Read more