Heritage Auctions: A Treasure Trove for STAR TREK Fans
The thrill of the final frontier and the nostalgia of beloved science-fiction series will come to life at Heritage Auctions' latest Hollywood/Entertainment Signature Auction. The July 25-26 event is a dream come true for Star Trek enthusiasts, featuring a myriad of rare items from the iconic franchise that have never before been assembled in a single place.
“As Heritage has done time and again, we’re bringing together some of the most important cultural artifacts that have never before been in a single place,” says Heritage Auctions Executive Vice President Joe Maddalena. “When you do that, you immediately, instinctively recognize the importance and influence of these science-fiction films and television shows — how they’ve shaped how we look at and think about the world and beyond.”
One of the auction's most anticipated items is a filming miniature of the USS Excelsior, built by Greg Jein for the Star Trek: Voyager episode "Flashback." This model celebrates the 30th anniversary of Star Trek and has been prominently displayed at the Museum of Pop Culture in Seattle. The Excelsior, introduced in Star Trek III: The Search for Spock, is remembered for its cutting-edge transwarp drive, symbolizing the innovation and exploration central to the Star Trek ethos.
The auction also features a stunning 5.5-foot-long illuminated USS Enterprise model. This collaborative effort between Jein and Lou Zutavern, Jein's shop foreman, was intended for an episode of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Although the episode was never filmed, the model stands as a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and enduring appeal of the Star Trek universe.
One of the auction's most exclusive pieces is an original painting of the USS Enterprise by Walter "Matt" Jefferies, the art director who designed the starship. Jefferies' work, known for its inspiration from NASA and aerospace engineering designs, remains one of the most beautiful starship depictions in sci-fi history. This painting, used as the cover for Richard Jefferies' book "Beyond the Clouds: The Lifetime Trek of Walter 'Matt' Jefferies, Artist and Visionary," offers a rare glimpse into the creative process behind the iconic starship.
Adding to the allure is Bob Peak's original artwork for the Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home poster. Known as "The Father of the Modern Movie Poster," Peak's vibrant and dynamic style brought the time-traveling adventure to life, making it one of the most memorable pieces of Star Trek art.
While the auction boasts significant Star Trek memorabilia, it also includes notable items from other science fiction landmarks. Collectors will find a Y-wing starfighter from Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope and the infamous metal bikini worn by Carrie Fisher in Return of the Jedi. Additionally, the original conceptual art for the Blade Runner poster by John Alvin will make its auction debut.
Chris Post is a life-long fan of Star Trek who has been working in journalism for nearly 25 years.