Since publishing my lengthy and comprehensive article last night (see “Questions About Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: Authenticity, Sources, Quantity“), which raises questions about the number of “original” and “authentic” Superman costumes in the marketplace, another such auction has been listed on eBay since completing the article:
queenrocks:
Superman Superboy Reeve Costume w Trunks (eBay Item #320209035392)
Higher Resolution Archive: queenrocks eBay Listing -”Superman Superboy Reeve Costume w Trunks”
This auction has an opening bid amount of only $950, with no reserve. The marketing comments for this costume are as follows:
SUPERMAN / SUPERBOY
Authentic Original CostumeUp for auction is an 100% authentic and original Superman costume used in either the Superman movies or Superboy series – I am moving and need the cash, otherwise I would NOT part with this, but some of my favorite ‘collectables’ have to go – here’s your chance to own a piece of history!
100% Original Superman Reeve / Superboy Tunic – Also comes with trunks (see pics) – Comes with COA from the original costume maker – Costume appears to have been VERY lightly used and is near MINT condition
It is interesting that the description attributes this costume to both the original 1978 film, Superman: The Movie, as well as the Superboy television series (1988 – 1992).
The included letter is on “Super Hollywood” letterhead, though it bears the signature of Ana Mungia, Wardrobe MGM Studios, Creative Design. A photo of the letter is pictured in the auction:
The letter reads:
May 15, 1991
This is to certify that the Superman costume in the [unreadable] of Super Hollywood was one of the costumes acquired by me as personal gifts from the Salkinds during my employ for their Superboy production. The above is true and correct. It is believed to have been one of the costumes used in the production of their Superman movie of the 1978.
Thanks you.
Sincerely,
Ana Mungia
Wardrobe MGM studios
Creative Design
It is curious that Ms. Mungia’s signature and testimony is on Super Hollywood letterhead. It is also interesting to compare this letter with the other Super Hollywood letter posted in last night’s article, from the 2005 American Memorabilia auction (see: Lot 87: Superman Flying Costume Worn by Christopher Reeve):
The letter reads:
June 26, 2000
To Whom It May Concern:
This Chris Reeve costume is an authentic Superman costume created for Mr. Christopher Reeve for the Superman movies of the late 1970’s and early 1980’s. It is one of many created for the Superman movies. Superman was produced by Ilya and Alexander Salkind. The Movie Superman spawned various sequels. It was obtained from the head costumer who worked for the Salkinds and given to me as a gift. The above is true and correct.
Sincerely,
Armando Alvarez
President
Super Hollywood
“Original” & “Authentic” Superman Costumes on the Market Today – Literally “Today”
So with the auction noted above, plus the two in last night’s article, there are currently no less than three “original” and “authentic” Superman costumes on eBay right now, today, all either citing Super Hollywood (super38 on eBay) as source/authenticator or offered by that seller directly.
What follows is a summary and link to the other two currently active auctions…
Costume Junkie (costumejunkie):
Christopher Reeves SUPERMAN III authentic costume (eBay Item #140199822634):
Higher Resolution Archive: costumejunkie eBay Listing – “Christopher Reeves SUPERMAN III authentic costume”
“The costume will come with a COA from Superhollywood.”
Super Hollywood (super38):
Superman III ‘Dirty’ tunic Reeve costume w trunks (eBay Item #260201325452)
High Resolution Archive: super38 eBay Listing – “Superman III ‘Dirty’ tunic Reeve costume w trunks”
“Super Hollywood is offering these 100% Original, Superman Reeve Tunic with maroon attached trunks. Superman III. Comes with original COA from owner. NO TAG. For the true Superman collector. 100% authentic and original.”
Also of note is a fourth, not active but sold just one month ago by Super Hollywood (super38).
Super Hollywood (super38):
Superman tunic and trunks Reeve costume Original cape (eBay Item #260189285963)
Higher Resolution Archive: super38 eBay Listing – “Superman tunic and trunks Reeve costume Original cape” 12/07/07
“Super Hollywood is offering this 100% Original, Superman tunic with attached red trunks (no cape) from the late 1970’s early 1980’s Superman movies. Christopher Reeve tunic. Please email for any and all questions. This costume comes with original letter of provenance from the costumer. This is a true “Hero” costume iconic piece. For the Superman collector. 100% authentic and original.”
__________________
I will continue to observe this property in the open market, and post updates as applicable.
Jason De Bord
Additional Related Articles: Market Watch | Superman