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For Sale: H.R. Giger's Eerie Prototype Costume From Alien

By Jake Rossen

An early Xenomorph design from 1979's Alien is up for auction.
An early Xenomorph design from 1979's Alien is up for auction. / Courtesy of Julien's Auctions
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What could be creepier than the drooling, carnivorous monster from 1979’s Alien? How about a translucent version?

The original design from the mind of H.R. Giger for the classic science fiction horror franchise is part of a Hollywood memorabilia sale being offered by Julien’s Auctions on Wednesday, April 28, and Thursday, April 29.

The Xenomorph costume, nicknamed “Big Chap” by those involved with the production, is a milky white and close to the final design. Camera tests were performed before director Ridley Scott opted for a non-translucent version. Long believed lost, it’s expected to fetch between $40,000 and $60,000. Alien collectors, however, are sure to drive up that conservative estimate.

A translucent Xenomorph costume from 1979's Alien was believed to have been lost.
A translucent Xenomorph costume from 1979's Alien was believed to have been lost. / Courtesy of Julien's Auctions

Classic fantasy films are well-represented in the auction. The Catwoman mask worn by Michelle Pfeiffer in 1992’s Batman Returns could net between $8000 to $12,000.

The Catwoman mask from 1992's Batman Returns shows battle damage.
The Catwoman mask from 1992's Batman Returns shows battle damage. / Courtesy of Julien's Auctions

Bruce Willis suited up as John McClane for a third time in 1995’s Die Hard With a Vengeance. His distressed tank top, shoulder holster, and police badge are being offered as a set ($20,000 to $30,000).

John McClane's distressed outfit from 1995's Die Hard With a Vengeance.
John McClane's distressed outfit from 1995's Die Hard With a Vengeance. / Courtesy of Julien's Auctions

A pair of prop “scissorhands” designed by Stan Winston and worn by Johnny Depp in 1990’s Edward Scissorhands ($30,000 to $50,000) is also on offer.

The prop gloves used in 1990's Edward Scissorhands.
The prop gloves used in 1990's Edward Scissorhands. / Courtesy of Julien's Auctions

While we don’t recommend using this as official identification, you can pick up a prototype badge and identification card for Jodie Foster’s Clarice Starling in 1991’s The Silence of the Lambs ($5000 to $7000).

Clarice Starling's badge and identification card from 1991's The Silence of the Lambs.
Clarice Starling's badge and identification card from 1991's The Silence of the Lambs. / Courtesy of Julien's Auctions

For details on dozens of other props, head over to Julien’s Auctions.

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