An injection-moulded C-3PO special effects head from Irvin Kershner's Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. Following the success of Star Wars and after feedback from Anthony Daniels, the decision was taken to overhaul the C-3PO costumes for The Empire Strikes Back. As part of the upgrade, the helmet was crafted from injection-moulded plastic, making it more comfortable than the previous fibreglass design. However, when the helmets arrived after manufacture, the plastic was found to have shrunk, making them too small for wear. Not to let them go to waste, some were turned over to the special effects department.

This plastic helmet is of a clamshell design, with an interlocking faceplate secured with threaded bolts at the top of the head and on both sides of the neck. Hand-written production markings are present within, with 'SEFX' written in black marker along the inside of the forehead, and above it the number '12' in blue marker. Similar markings are present in the rear section, indicating a matched pair. Scoring is present in the eye sockets, where eyes were once fitted during use on the production. Replica eyes have been added to complete the look of the piece, with light-up functionality powered by a 9-volt battery.

The helmet retains much of its original metallic finish, achieved via a process of copper plating, with a vacuum-metalised top coat. The finish has tarnished and darkened with age, a common case with many original C-3PO pieces - the result of chemical reactions between the material and the coatings applied during the production. There are some additional scratches and chips on the finish, particularly around contact points near the neck and along the helmet's seams. However, in spite of this wear, it remains in very good condition. Dimensions: 24 cm x 22 cm x 33 cm (9 1/2" x 8 3/4" x 13")

£60,000 - 80,000

This item contains electronic components. While every effort is made to describe them accurately, no guarantee or warranty is made as to functionality, lifespan or safety of those components. It is entirely incumbent on the new owner to satisfy themselves as to their safe use and maintenance.