One of the most sought after of all movie posters, Nicolas Cage's Phantom of the Opera one-sheet, has sold after strong bids at Heritage Auctions' July 19-20 Vintage Movie Posters Signature Auction in Dallas.
 One of the rarest and most important film posters, boosted by its Nicolas Cage provenance |
The poster is one of only four known to exist, and is considered one of the finest and most significant ever made. It's importance was reflected in collectors' bids, with the final price standing at $203,150.
It previously sold for $155,350 in 2008, corresponding to a 4.9% per annum increase.
Phantom of the Opera (1925) was Universal Pictures' president Carl Laemmle's follow-up to his incredibly successful Hunchback of Notre Dame (1923). Recasting star Lon Chaney as the phantom, the film was a huge success, terrifying audiences and paving the way for the historic Universal horror series.
Just eight different poster designs were created for the film, and only two of those show the phantom, due to Laemmle wanting to keep his monster's appearance a surprise to unassuming crowds.
This poster is the only example that shows Chaney's phantom clearly, and is considered the apex of the Universal monster poster series.
The poster was previously housed in the esteemed collection of actor Nicolas Cage - a factor that boosted bids on the day. Cage is a renowned collector, who once owned the most valuable comic ever sold at auction, Action Comics #1.
Paul Fraser Collectibles has a great collection of movie memorabilia for sale.
