A legendary piece of Hollywood memorabilia has found a new owner after the brown felt fedora worn by Harrison Ford in “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom” was auctioned for an impressive $630,000. The auction, conducted by Propstore, a leading film and TV memorabilia company, took place in Los Angeles on Friday.
The hat, a key accessory in the 1984 film, had been expected to sell for between $250,000 and $500,000. However, its final price far exceeded expectations, highlighting the enduring appeal of the “Indiana Jones” franchise and the iconic status of the character portrayed by Ford.
This particular fedora holds special significance as it comes from the personal collection of the late Dean Ferrandini, a stunt performer who stood in for Harrison Ford during the filming of “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom.” Ferrandini not only owned the hat but also wore it while performing stunts as the adventurous archaeologist who famously despises snakes.
Keeping the hat securely in place during the film’s intense action scenes was no easy task. According to Propstore’s expert description, foam pieces were inserted inside the fedora to ensure a snug fit during filming. The hat itself, crafted by the Herbert Johnson Hat Company in London, is made of sable-colored rabbit felt, adding to its unique value.
In addition to the Indiana Jones fedora, other notable items were sold at the auction. A white “biker scout” helmet from 1983’s “Return of the Jedi” fetched $315,000, and a ghost costume worn in the 1996 horror film “Scream” sold for $270,900.
“Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom” remains a beloved film in the franchise, also starring Kate Capshaw as nightclub singer Willie Scott and Ke Huy Quan as Short Round. The film’s success and its memorable characters have cemented its place in cinematic history, and the sale of the fedora is a testament to its lasting impact on fans and collectors alike.
