Y-wing Starfighter model from Star Wars
The Y-wing Starfighter model from Star Wars: Episode IV—A New Hope (1977) stole the spotlight at a recent auction. This 1:24-scale miniature, a significant piece of film history, attracted considerable attention from collectors and fans.
The model’s creation began with sketches by Colin Cantwell, inspired by George Lucas’s vision. Ralph McQuarrie refined these designs, and ILM’s team, under Grant McCune’s direction, brought the model to life. Only two Y-wing models were made for the film.
This particular Y-wing, measuring an impressive 27.5 inches, was meticulously crafted from resin, styrene, acrylic, and metal, with an aluminum frame to ensure stability during filming. Its surface was intricately painted to resemble a battle-damaged spacecraft, complete with blast marks and scorchings. It was equipped with functional lighting for the engines and weapon systems and became known as the “TIE Killer” due to the TIE fighter emblem on its nose. This model took center stage during the iconic trench run sequence of the original Star Wars film.
The auction saw bids soar beyond expectations, with the model ultimately selling for an astounding $1.55 million, far surpassing the $200,000–300,000 estimate. Proving once again the lasting allure of Star Wars memorabilia and the high value placed on authentic film artifacts.