On April 14th, 2012 Marvel Entertainment in conjunction with auction house, Profiles in History, will be holding the “Captain America: The First Avenger Auction“. The auction, taking place at the Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo (C2E2), has created a worldwide buzz among comic book and entertainment memorabilia fans alike.
In addition to writing about entertainment & memorabilia, I am also a movie prop collector and Marvel fan, so when I heard about the auction, I wanted to know more. I contacted Profiles in History’s CEO and President, Joe Maddalena, to ask him some questions regarding the event. Joe was more than happy to take a few moments from his busy schedule to answer my questions.
MoviePropCollectors (MPC):
Joe. Thanks for taking the time for this interview. Can you tell us how Profiles got involved with Marvel for this auction?
Joe Maddalena (J.M):
Sure Jim happy to do it. Marvel contacted me about doing this auction not too long ago. I was not only honored, but excited, because I have been a comic book collector and fan as long as I can remember and Captain America is one of my favorite comic book characters. How much better than that can it get? I immediately said yes !
MPC:
Can you tell us a little about the C2E2 display?
JM:
Profiles booth (#609) will be located near the Marvel booth. Ours is a 20 x 20 booth, so it’s a sizable space allowing us to showcase over 50 incredibly amazing lots from the catalog. This is a wonderful opportunity for us to interact with fans and we will make it great. Among some of the lots that we are bringing include all four Captain America costumes. Each iteration of the iconic Captain America shield, including the one encased in ice, the Super Soldier hero serum vial, the Cosmic Cube, a Hydra soldier costume, Schmidt’s Red Skull facial appliance mask, along with his SS and Hydra costumes, Captain America’s motorcycle, as well as a 17,000 pound tank! That’s not all. We also have a few items from Thor, including Mjolnir. If you are at C2E2. stop on by and say hello.
MPC:
Wouldn’t miss it. How can potential bidders register for the auction?
JM:
Very easy. Just visit www.ProfilesinHistory.com. People can bid by phone, the internet and of course live at C2E2.
MPC:
How was it decided what items would be chosen for the auction?
JM:
We wanted the best representation of the various props and costumes from the film for fans. One great thing is we have complete costumes in a single lot. Suit, boots, gloves, even shields, which makes it easier for collectors. Also, since the items come directly from Marvel, bidders will know where and how the items were used in the film. Additionally, every lot comes with a C.O.A from Marvel.
MPC:
I just received the catalog and really enjoyed it. Did Marvel have input on the creation of the catalog?
JM:
Yes. Marvel was very much a part of the catalog’s creation and lot descriptions, which was great. The joint effort between Marvel and Profiles in History made putting the catalog together a pleasure.
MPC:
What has been the reaction of fans and the press to the auction?
JM:
The reaction of fans and the press has been amazing. Not just in the US, but all over the world. China, Japan, London, Paris, Spain. Media and fans worldwide have been excited about the auction.
MPC:
In the catalog I noticed a full Captain America hero, screen worn costume as well as a full Iron Man Mark 2 costume, and some items from Thor. I believe this is the first time two complete Marvel Avenger costumes have ever been offered in one auction. The Iron Man Mark 2 Autopsy costume is amazing. In the past, only parts of Iron Man’s costume have been auctioned. Can you tell us a bit more about these items?
JM:
The hero, screen-worn Captain America costume is complete with helmet, belt, gloves, boots, and stunt pistol.This by itself would be a worthy lot. However, we have included an awesome shield with the ensemble. The Iron Man suit is simply stunning. Handcrafted and constructed by the amazingly talented artists at Legacy Effects, it was used in the autopsy scene in Iron Man 2. As an extra bonus, the “rocket” boots for this autopsy suit were worn by “Tony Stark” during the memorable first flight test sequence in the first Iron Man film. We also have Thor’s stunt ax and hammer, as well as a few other items from Thor.
The Captain America costume, along with the Iron Man suit, are perhaps the best interpretations of a superhero costume from comics to screen so far. They are a testament to Marvel’s vision and to the artistry of the costume and prop-makers. Neither suits have ever been available to the public before in their complete forms.
MPC:
I understand Hollywood Treasure is having a panel discussion at C2E2, can you give us information about that?
JM:
A panel discussion featuring Hollywood Treasure will take place on Friday, April 13th, from 6:15pm to 7:15pm. The main cast members-Brian, Tracey, Jon, and myself will be present to talk about the show, the field of collectibles, and the auction. Prior to that, from 4:45 to 5:15, we will be available to sign autographs.
MPC:
What’s next for Profiles and Marvel?
JM:
We are planning a few surprises for the auction. I feel it is important for every fan of Captain America to have an opportunity to take home an artifact from the film. Marvel agreed, and gave the green-light. This way a few lucky fans could go home with a piece of movie history.
MPC:
Can you tell us more about that?
JM:
We will be unveiling a campaign in the weeks leading up to the auction. I encourage everybody to sign up and check out our Facebook and Twitter accounts for more information.
MPC:
Can you tell us what the items are?
JM:
Not at this time. I can’t tell you everything…(Joe laughing).
MPC:
I had to try,(laughing). Thanks for taking the time to share this information about the auction with Movie Prop Collectors readers.
JM:
Thank you Jim. I am looking forward to everyone having a great time in Chicago at the convention and auction.
All photos ©Marvel, Profiles in History, Movie Prop Collectors and their respective owners.
