Veteran actor Gene Hackman’s extensive collection of film memorabilia and art recently sold for a remarkable $3 million (£2.25m). The highly anticipated auction, managed by Bonhams, took place over several days in New York. This event drew considerable interest from collectors and fans globally.

Over 400 unique items went under the hammer during the comprehensive sale. These offerings included various prestigious film awards and cherished personal effects. The successful auction concluded just weeks following Hackman’s passing.

A standout piece was his Golden Globe Award for the critically acclaimed film “The Royal Tenenbaums.” This coveted accolade fetched an impressive $51,200 (£38,500) from an anonymous buyer. Its final price significantly surpassed its initial estimate by more than seventeen times.

His second Golden Globe, awarded for the classic Western “Unforgiven,” also achieved a substantial sum. It sold for $43,520 (£33,000) during a competitive bidding process. These significant sales underscore Hackman’s celebrated, decorated acting career.

Among other prized possessions was Hackman’s distinctive “Pepsi” Quartz Diver’s wristwatch. This unique timepiece garnered $21,760 (£16,000) from an enthusiastic collector. Additionally, three of his personal Steinway grand pianos collectively sold for $78,080 (£59,000).

The diverse collection also featured an early script for the acclaimed thriller “Silence of the Lambs.” Another intriguing item was his vintage Bally Gilligan’s Island Electric Pinball Machine. These personal effects offered a rare glimpse into Hackman’s private interests.

Anna Hicks, a senior specialist at Bonhams, expressed immense satisfaction with the auction’s outcome. “We are thrilled with the exceptional response and remarkable results achieved across all sales,” she stated. The event recorded a perfect sell-through rate across all categories.

Hicks further highlighted the collection’s profound appeal to bidders worldwide. She explained, “It offered an intimate glimpse into Hackman’s creative life, which deeply resonated.” This connection attracted both seasoned collectors and dedicated enthusiasts alike.

The high-profile auction followed closely on the heels of Gene Hackman’s death in February at the age of 95. He reportedly passed away from natural causes at his residence. His beloved wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, had died approximately one week earlier.

Ms. Arakawa succumbed to a rare virus, according to family reports at the time. Both their bodies were discovered at their shared home. This residence was located in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where the couple had lived for many years.

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