NOVEMBER 9, 2023 - The first model of the U.S.S. Enterprise from Star Trek: The Original Series is a very important piece of Star Trek history that up until recently was considered lost forever.

This 3’ scale model was constructed in 1964 by Richard C. Datin as a guide for the 11 foot model. However, tthe 11’ model took a long time to build, so the smaller model was used in many shots both in and out of the series and was used extensively for publicity photo shoots by itself or with series main actors. It was also the last model to ever appear in The Original Series, representing the shrunken starship in “Requiem for Methuselah.”

The model mysteriously disappeared during the production of Star Trek: The Motion Picture and many believed it was stolen. Robert Able and Associates were kicked off the production as a consequence, for failing to meet their obligation to protect the model. That was considered to be the end of the story until early last week when an eBay seller posted a listing for a 3’ scale model of the Enterprise.

The seller posted over 10 images of the model on eBay showing up-close photos of it. Upon close inspection, the model has a very clear resemblance to the original. The saucer is flat which is something only seen in that early model, the nacelles have details only seen in that original model. The shuttlebay door is missing from the original model and the one on eBay. The model on eBay has the same damage that the original does. Some individuals also compared the wood grain of the original model and the model on eBay and found even more similarities. All that is to say, it’s pretty clear that this is the original model or an absolutely amazing remake.

The listing has now been taken off eBay and according to the original seller it is “with a proper team.” Rod Roddenbery, Gene Roddenbery’s son, posted about it on X, formerly known as Twitter.

No more news has come up about the model however we will probably be hearing more about it soon if it truly is the real thing.