Later this month, Disney die-hards will get the chance to own one-of-a-kind pieces of park history. Potter & Potter Auctions in Chicago is holding a massive auction of Disney memorabilia, attraction posters and even ride cars on July 30.
Orlando Weekly had the opportunity to speak with auction house president Gabe Fajuri. The expert in collectibles told us that this is their second Disney auction because the first one amused them with its success.
After the strong results of our previous Disneyana sale, this years offering is one we have been highly anticipating, as have our bidders, Fajuri said.
This auction is marked by the iconic nature of some of its offerings, including pieces from the Haunted Mansion and Mr. Toads Wild Ride. For those who dont have space to display a full car, there are many original attraction posters hitting the auction block.
I think its the biggest offering of some of the attraction posters maybe ever at an auction, Fajuri said.
Beyond the posters, Fajuri pointed out several pieces of iconic Disney memorabilia headed for the auction block. A stretching portrait from the Haunted Mansion, a Mr. Toads Wild Ride Ratty vehicle from 1971, a Mickeys Toontown Fair/Tomorrowland double-sided sign and a framed of Polynesian Resort luau night wall painting are among the many offerings.
Potter & Potter is expecting at least 2,000 people to sign up for the auction.
I am amazed at how many collectors there are and at how excited they are about the stuff, Fajuri said. I expect there to be considerable competition for the rarities in this auction come the day of the sale - both in person and online.
The auction will be held online and in-person and they have plenty of options for customers to place bids. Disney lovers can place bids online, by phone or by placing an absentee bid.
If any Orlandoans wish to attend the event in person at 5001 W Belmont Avenue in Chicago, they will have to reserve seats by calling the auction house ahead of time.
Take a look at some of our favorite things coming up for sale.
Story by Maria Briceno.
Cinderella Castle courtesy of Disney, all other photos via Potter & Potter.