The iconic hat worn by Harrison Ford’s character in “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom” was sold for a staggering $630,000 at an auction on Thursday. The auction also featured memorabilia from other famous franchises, including “Star Wars,” “Harry Potter,” and “James Bond.”
A Fierce Bidding War
According to Propstore, the auction house that organized the sale, there were 37 bids for the hat. The hat was famously worn by Harrison Ford, who portrayed the fearless archaeologist Dr. Henry Walton “Indiana” Jones, Jr. The hat’s significance and its association with Ford’s portrayal made it a coveted item among collectors.
A Blockbuster Success
Released in 1984, “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom” was directed by Steven Spielberg. The film was both a critical and commercial success, receiving nominations for two Academy Awards and grossing $333,107,271 worldwide. Set in India in 1935, the film also introduced audiences to Ke Huy Quan, who won the role of Short Round after competing against 6,000 other children.
The Hat’s Memorable Appearances
The auction house revealed that the hat was worn by either Ford or his stunt double, American stuntman Dean Ferrandini, in several of the movie’s most iconic scenes. These scenes included the yellow raft on the snow-covered mountain and the thrilling river escape.
The Legacy of Dean Ferrandini
Dean Ferrandini, who had an illustrious career working on over 100 films and shows, passed away last year. The hat was part of his personal collection, as reported by the BBC. This added another layer of history and significance to the item.
Crafted by the Herbert Johnson Hat Company
The fedora, made by the Herbert Johnson Hat Company in London, accompanied Jones on his adventures across London, Sri Lanka, and the United States, where the movie was filmed. The hat featured a sable-colored rabbit felt, a dark brown ribbon, and a leather sweatband. Notably, the sweatband was stamped with the initials “I J” in gold, a detail specific to the hats made for the original three Indiana Jones films.
A Collectible Treasure
In 2021, another fedora from “Temple of Doom” was auctioned for just over $431,000, including a buyer’s premium. The significant jump in the auction price of this latest hat highlights its enduring value and the lasting legacy of the Indiana Jones franchise.
References:
CBS News – https://www.cbsnews.com/news/indiana-jones-temple-of-doom-hat-630000-at-auction/
