A violin prop used in the legendary 1997 Hollywood blockbuster Titanic is set to be auctioned for a cool $75,000. Despite the film’s ensemble cast, numerous storylines, and thousands of props, this particular violin stands out. Played by the ship’s fictional bandleader in a heart-wrenching sequence as the Titanic sinks, the instrument became a poignant symbol of bravery and emotion, helping the actor deliver a powerful performance.
Described as a “true piece of movie history,” the violin was used in the iconic scene where the band performs Nearer, My God, to Thee as the doomed ship slips beneath the waves. The role of the bandleader, Wallace Hartley, who in real life perished along with over 1,500 others, was portrayed by actor and professional violinist Jonathan Evans-Jones. Interestingly, on the actual RMS Titanic, all eight musicians lost their lives. None were officially part of the ship’s crew; they were subcontracted by a music agency and traveled as second-class passengers.
The violin from James Cameron’s film will be auctioned by Henry Aldridge & Son in Wiltshire at the end of the month. Auctioneer Andrew Aldridge said, “Having sold the original violin that was played by Wallace Hartley when the Titanic sank, we are delighted to offer the violin that was played in James Cameron’s movie for auction, one of the highest-grossing movies of all time. This is a true piece of movie history that will appeal to both Titanic and movie memorabilia collectors. It’s a true cross-collectible.”
While the estimate stands at $75,000, the final bid must soar much higher. Just last year, a 55-pound piece of coal recovered from the Titanic wreck site was listed for $500,000. At another auction, a century-old gold pocket watch that belonged to businessman John Jacob Astor fetched an impressive $1.5 million, the highest price ever paid for Titanic memorabilia. According to the BBC, the original violin played by Wallace Hartley was sold at auction in 2013 for an astonishing $1.13 million
