Original Darth Vader costume up for sale in London

[October 27, 2010]  LONDON (AP) -- The Force can be with you -- for a price.

Christie's auction house says it is selling an original Darth Vader costume from the "Star Wars" movie franchise.

The jet-black helmet, mask and armor worn by the intergalactic villain are expected to sell for between 160,000 pounds and 230,000 pounds ($250,000 and $365,000) at a sale of pop culture memorabilia next month.

Christie's said Wednesday that the costume is thought to have been made for "The Empire Strikes Back," the second film in George Lucas's sci-fi series, released in 1980.

Christie's did not name the owner, identified only as an American private collector.

The sale takes place Nov. 25 in London.

[Associated Press]

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