Can You Bid on Iconic Doctor Who Props?

Fans of the iconic British sci-fi series Doctor Who can now bid for a chance to own a piece of television history in a unique online auction featuring memorabilia from the beloved show. Notable items include a sonic screwdriver used by David Tennant and a "screen-matched" cracked TARDIS from the episode "Eve Of The Daleks." This online auction not only offers fans a chance to acquire cherished artefacts but also supports BBC Children In Need, with 20% of proceeds going to the charity.

Last updated: 19 February 2024 (BST)

What’s happening now

The online auction for Doctor Who memorabilia is now live and will run until 19 February 2024. This event marks a significant opportunity for fans and collectors alike, featuring a range of iconic props and costumes from the show's extensive history. Items include the recently used Joy To The World light-up sonic screwdriver wielded by the current 15th Doctor, Ncuti Gatwa, and various costumes worn by beloved characters throughout the series. All lots start at £100, making it accessible for a wide audience. The auction is hosted by Propstore, with the aim of finding new homes for these artefacts while supporting a charitable cause.

Key takeaways

The auction features memorabilia spanning the show's history, including items from 2005 to 2025.
20% of the proceeds will be donated to BBC Children In Need.
Notable items include sonic screwdrivers and costumes from various Doctors and companions.

Timeline: how we got here

Doctor Who first premiered on 23 November 1963. After concluding its original run in 1989, the series was successfully revived in 2005. Significant events related to the current auction include:

2005: Doctor Who is relaunched by Russell T Davies as a BBC Wales production.
2012: The NSDA4 Dalek makes its debut, becoming a staple in the series.
2023: Ncuti Gatwa is announced as the 15th Doctor, bringing fresh energy to the franchise.
2024: The online auction of memorabilia begins on 19 February, showcasing items from multiple eras of the show.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The auction has officially launched, offering fans the chance to bid on various lots for the first time. The collection spans different Doctors and eras, reflecting the show's evolution and its impact on television culture.

What was already established

Doctor Who has maintained a loyal fanbase since its inception, with a legacy that includes numerous spin-offs, merchandise, and cultural references. The series is known for its imaginative storytelling and memorable characters, making memorabilia highly sought after.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The auction provides an accessible way for fans to connect with the series, potentially enhancing their viewing experience and appreciation of the show's history. The charitable aspect also encourages community involvement, as proceeds support BBC Children In Need.

Businesses and jobs

Propstore's collaboration with BBC Studios highlights the intersection of entertainment and commerce, showcasing how television history can be monetised through auctions. This initiative may also provide job opportunities in marketing and auction management within the entertainment sector.

Policy and regulation

The auction adheres to the regulations surrounding charitable donations in the UK, ensuring that a portion of the proceeds goes towards a reputable cause. This transparency benefits both collectors and the charity, fostering trust in the auction process.

Numbers that matter

20% of auction proceeds will benefit BBC Children In Need, supporting vulnerable children across the UK.
Items start at a minimum bid of £100, appealing to a broad audience of fans and collectors.
The auction features memorabilia spanning nearly two decades, from 2005 to 2025.

Definitions and jargon buster

TARDIS: Time and Relative Dimension in Space; the Doctor's time-travelling spaceship.
Sonic screwdriver: A multifunctional tool used by the Doctor to interact with technology and solve problems.
Dalek: A fictional extraterrestrial race of mutants in the Doctor Who universe, known for their catchphrase "Exterminate!".

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Fans interested in bidding should register for the auction and monitor their favourite lots as the bidding progresses. Consider setting a budget to avoid overspending during the excitement of the auction.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Post-auction, collectors should focus on how to display and preserve their acquired memorabilia, considering factors such as sunlight exposure and humidity to maintain the items' condition.

Signals to watch

Watch for announcements regarding future Doctor Who memorabilia auctions, as this could become an ongoing event.
Monitor the popularity of the current auction to gauge fan interest and potential future sales.

Practical guidance

Do

Research items of interest before bidding to ensure informed purchases.
Participate actively in the auction, keeping an eye on bids and remaining competitive.

Don’t

Don’t bid impulsively without considering your budget.
Don’t overlook the importance of preserving memorabilia once acquired.

Checklist

Ensure you are registered on the auction platform.
Set a maximum bid for each item you are interested in.
Research the provenance and condition of items before bidding.
Plan for how you will display and protect your memorabilia post-auction.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the auction presents a unique opportunity for fans, it’s essential to be aware of potential risks. The value of memorabilia can fluctuate based on market trends, and there is no guarantee that items will appreciate in value. Additionally, the condition of some items may not meet expectations upon arrival, so research is crucial before bidding.

Bottom line

The Doctor Who memorabilia auction is a significant event for fans and collectors, offering a chance to own a piece of television history. With proceeds supporting a charitable cause, this initiative resonates with the show's legacy and its community. As the auction unfolds, participants should approach with enthusiasm but also caution, ensuring they make informed decisions.

FAQs

What items are available in the Doctor Who auction?

The auction features various memorabilia, including sonic screwdrivers, costumes, and props from different eras of Doctor Who, with some starting at £100.

How long will the auction run?

The auction is set to run until 19 February 2024, providing ample time for fans to bid on their favourite items.

What percentage of proceeds goes to charity?

20% of the proceeds from the auction will be donated to BBC Children In Need, supporting vulnerable children and young people across the UK.