In performing research for my continuing series of past public auction house events, archiving and sharing information about Superman costumes offered for sale historically (of costumes attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s), I noticed a change on one of the “Auction Archives” listings on the Heritage Auction Galleries website.
In my February 6, 2008 article, “More on Heritage Auction Galleries, L.A. Prop & Wardrobe“, I had commented on the fact that my April 2007 inquiry with Heritage about their upcoming auction included a request for more information about the “Christopher Reeve Superman III Costume” which cited an “LOA from LA Prop & Wardrobe Company” in regards to provenance and authenticity.
In the article, I observed that the Superman costume (Lot 21073, Auction 647), per the Heritage Auction Archive, realized $14,340.00 including Buyer’s Premium. I archived the web page as it appeared on February 6, 2008 in the referenced article:
Higher Resolution Archive: Heritage Auction Galleries: Christopher Reeve Superman III Costume Lot 21073 – February 6, 2008
In compiling additional information for my ongoing Superman auction articles, I revisited the online Heritage Auction Archive today, and noticed that the Auction Archive for this lot has changed.
The Auction Archive now reflects a status of “Not Sold”, which Heritage defines in their Glossary of Terms (LINK):
This indicates an item that did not sell at auction because it did not receive bids equal to or greater than the reserve (minimum bid) amount set by the consignor.
Also of note is that the final line of the description – “Accompanied by LOA from LA Prop & Wardrobe Company” – has been removed.
Here is an archive of how the Heritage Auction Archive appears today:
Higher Resolution Archive: Heritage Auction Galleries: Christopher Reeve Superman III Costume Lot-21073 – March 12, 2008
Here is a direct link to the live/real time Auction Archive listing: Lot 21073, Auction 647
Jason De Bord
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