(MGM, 1959) This impressive costume consists of an undertunic, metal chest armor, cape, sandals, helmet and sword with scabbard. The helmet is made of metal painted gold with a black feather plume across the top. The chest armor is constructed of metal with gold paint and has an orange cape and wide red suede fringes along the bottom. “MGM” is handwritten twice inside the chest armor. The chest armor and helmet exhibit wear, light chipping due to age and production use. The white cotton undertunic has an orange trim along the bottom and has numerous holes and tears from heavy production use. The brown leather Roman sandals have four buckles and exhibit some minor wear to the soles and straps. The metal sword measures 33 in. long, and the accompanying scabbard has a black shoulder strap of black suede featuring numerous gold metal accents. Ben-Hur was nominated for twelve Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Costume Design.

Estimate $6,000 – $8,000