What happens when childhood nostalgia meets decades of dedication? In Denver, Jeff Jacob’s love for Star Wars has turned into a multimillion-dollar treasure trove of rare collectibles. Now, after 32 years of curating one of the world’s most coveted collections, he’s ready to share it with the galaxy—starting with an auction valued at an eye-popping $7 million. From ultra-rare action figures to pieces linked to George Lucas himself, this auction is a must-watch for anyone captivated by the enduring magic of Star Wars.
A 32-Year Galactic Journey Comes Full Circle
In a galaxy not so far away—specifically Denver—Jeff Jacob has been quietly amassing a treasure trove of Star Wars memorabilia that would make even Emperor Palpatine raise an eyebrow. After 32 years of collecting and curating over 5,000 items, Jacob’s collection is now hitting the auction block, with an estimated value of $5–7 million.
But how does a construction worker turn his childhood nostalgia into a multimillion-dollar empire? Let’s dive into this tale of vintage toys, galactic-grade collectibles, and a little bit of Force.
From Humble Beginnings to Galactic Riches
Born just two years before Star Wars first graced the silver screen in 1977, Jacob’s love for the iconic franchise began early. Like many kids, he grew up playing with Star Wars toys. Unlike many kids, he didn’t hold onto them—most of his original toys were given away by the time he hit his tweens.
Fast forward to his late teens, Jacob found himself wandering into comic shops, rekindling his childhood passion. At first, it was a simple quest: to reclaim the toys he once had. But destiny had bigger plans. His collecting took a serious turn after a friend tipped him off about a woman selling a vintage toy collection to raise funds for an orphanage. At 19, Jacob scraped together $4,000 to buy the collection—despite his mother thinking he was a little, well, nuts. That gamble turned out to be the start of something extraordinary.
A Collection Fit for a Jedi Temple
Jacob’s collection isn’t just big; it’s one of the most valuable in the galaxy. At one point, an entire level of his home was dedicated to housing the treasures, from action figures to film props. Now, with his house on the market and no plans to build a new shrine to his fandom, he’s ready to part with over half of his collection.
Key items include an ultra-rare Obi-Wan Kenobi action figure with a double-telescoping lightsaber, a piece so rare it could fetch upwards of $1 million. Why so valuable? These figures were pulled from shelves in the ‘70s because the extendable saber was deemed a choking hazard. Collectors worldwide are now salivating over the chance to own one of only 10 known packaged examples in existence.
The Auction of a Lifetime
Jacob’s collection is being sold through Hake’s Auction House, which will release 500 pieces every two months, beginning January 6, 2025. With over a hundred items graded as the highest known quality and some pieces hailing from George Lucas’s personal collection, the auctions promise to be nothing short of legendary.
“There’s no telling what this stuff will go for,” Jacob said. “It’s been 15 years since a collection of this caliber has hit the market.”
Why This Auction Matters
For collectors, historians, and casual movie buffs alike, this auction is a rare chance to own a slice of cinematic history. Beyond the dollar signs, Jacob’s collection is a testament to the enduring legacy of Star Wars. It’s about more than toys or props—it’s about a story that has inspired generations and continues to bring people together.
May the Force (and the Bidding) Be with You
Whether you’re a serious collector or just someone with a soft spot for lightsabers, Jeff Jacob’s auction offers something to marvel at. It’s a reminder that sometimes, holding onto your childhood dreams—well, and 5,000 collectibles—can pay off in ways you’d never imagine.
As the first batch goes up for auction, the only question is: Who will win these galactic treasures? One thing’s for sure—this collection will make waves across the galaxy, and perhaps a few bank accounts, too.
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