by The original model used in Steven Spielberg’s classic 1982 film ET is expected to reach $ 3 million (£ 2.6 million) when it goes under the hammer in December.
Preceded by CGI technology, the mechatronic features 85 motion points and was operated by twelve professional animators.
Considered an engineering masterpiece, it was originally created by the Italian special effects designer Carlo Rambaldi.
The sale of the model is part of the Icons and Idols: Hollywood auction, organized by Julien’s Auctions and Turner Classic Movies (TCM), which coincides with the film’s 40th anniversary year.
ET L’Extra Terrestrial was nominated for nine Academy Awards, winning four including Best Visual Effects, which were awarded to Rambaldi and his team.
It was performed by Henry Thomas and Drew Barrymore and included a soundtrack by legendary composer John Williams.
Other items from the film that will be auctioned include the original ET maquette model made for Steven Spielberg to approve the ET design, which is estimated to be between $ 80 and $ 100,000 (£ 70-87,000).
A set of original mechanical illustrations for ET projects is also estimated to range from $ 10-20,000 (£ 8,600-17,000) each.
Elsewhere, items from the Harry Potter franchise are also expected to fetch hundreds of thousands, including a selection of prop broomsticks belonging to Daniel Radcliffe.
Models include the original Harry Potter Nimbus 2000 and the Philosopher’s Stone, which could go up to $ 100,000 (£ 87,000), and a Shooting Star prop broom, estimated at $ 30-50,000 (£ 26-43,000). .
An original Gryffindor wool overcoat and a red and yellow Gryffindor scarf designed for Harry Potter is priced between $ 20 and $ 30,000 (£ 17-26,000).
An acrobatic robe from Harry Potter’s Gryffindor Quidditch team and the Chamber of Secrets can fetch up to $ 20,000 (£ 17,000).
The Icons and Idols: Hollywood auction will be held live on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 December in Beverly Hills.
