Posted on October 20, 2025 by Neil Cole
Sotheby's is set to offer a remarkable piece of cinematic history: a complete Superman costume worn by Christopher Reeve, assembled from original components spanning the first three films in the popular series - "Superman: The Movie" (1978), "Superman II" (1980), and "Superman III" (1983). The costume will be presented as Lot 3 in the Film Memorabilia auction, scheduled for October 28th at 3:00PM (GMT).
The ensemble includes a blue Lycra tunic fabricated and labeled for "Superman III", paired with red trunks and blue leggings originally created for "Superman II". Completing the set is a red wool cape that was fabricated and labeled for "Superman: The Movie" before being repurposed for "Superman II". Together, these authentic production pieces form a cohesive costume representing the evolution of Reeve's on-screen Superman across three landmark films.
Estimated between $600,000 and $800,000, the costume comes with original production labels, a certificate of authenticity, and full provenance tracing its history back to Propstore's Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction in 2022. It is displayed on a custom mannequin featuring a painted Christopher Reeve life-cast head and mounted on a silver "S"-shaped metal base, creating an elegant and museum-worthy presentation.
Christopher Reeve's portrayal of Superman remains one of the most iconic performances in film history, embodying hope, integrity, and heroism for generations of audiences. This auction represents an extraordinary opportunity for collectors and institutions to acquire a tangible artifact from that legacy - a symbol of the craftsmanship, storytelling, and enduring spirit that defined Reeve's Superman and forever shaped the modern superhero genre.
With this offering, Sotheby's continues its tradition of showcasing historic film artifacts that capture the imagination and preserve the artistry of cinema's greatest moments.
For more information, please visit Sothebys.com.
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English (US) · 