Iconic Wicked Witch Hat from The Wizard of Oz Heads to Multi-Million Dollar Auction

A legendary piece of cinema history is going up for sale. The iconic black hat worn by Margaret Hamilton as the Wicked Witch of the West in the 1939 classic “The Wizard of Oz” will be auctioned this December. Heritage Auctions will oversee the sale of the transformative costume piece.

The auction coincides with the new theatrical release of “Wicked: For Good.” This timing highlights the enduring legacy of the original film’s characters. It offers collectors a rare chance to own a central artifact from a beloved story.

The Hat’s Design and Cinematic Significance

The wool hat is a substantial piece of costume design. It measures nearly 14 inches high with a 19.5-inch diameter brim. It also features a 22-inch elastic chin strap used by Hamilton during flying scenes.

The hat was designed by the famed Gilbert Adrian. According to Heritage Auctions, it was introduced after filming began. The originally chosen hat was deemed not scary enough for the menacing witch.

A Treasure Trove of Oz Memorabilia on the Block

The witch’s hat is not the only item available. The auction will also feature several other significant pieces. A “The Wizard of Oz” book signed by Judy Garland and other main cast members, complete with Toto’s paw prints, will be sold.

Two versions of Dorothy’s ruby slippers are also hitting the block. One is a rehearsal shoe worn by Garland. The other is a highly accurate replica made for the film’s 50th anniversary using Garland’s original shoe form. Last year, a different pair of screen-used ruby slippers sold for $28 million, setting a high bar for this event.

This auction represents a major event for film memorabilia collectors. The iconic Wicked Witch hat is a central piece of American cinematic folklore. Its sale is expected to draw significant global interest and a multi-million dollar final bid.

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What else is being sold alongside the Wicked Witch’s hat?

The auction includes a book signed by Judy Garland and the cast, two versions of the ruby slippers, and an organza blouse worn by Garland. A handwritten letter by the original author, L. Frank Baum, is also part of the sale.

When and where is the auction taking place?

Heritage Auctions will hold the event on December 9 and 10. It will be conducted both online and at the auction house’s Dallas headquarters.

How much is the Wicked Witch hat expected to sell for?

Official estimates have not been publicly disclosed. However, the sale of ruby slippers for $28 million last year suggests the hat could command an eight-figure price due to its similar iconic status.

Who designed the Wicked Witch’s hat?

The hat was designed by Gilbert Adrian, the film’s chief costume designer. He created the piece after the initial hat chosen for the character failed to appear sufficiently frightening on camera.

Why is this hat considered so important to the film?

Heritage Auctions describes the hat as the moment the Wicked Witch is truly born. It is a transformational item for the character, on par with Dorothy putting on the ruby slippers.