DALLAS, TX.- Heritage Auctions will present one of the most important pieces of cinematic and pop culture history: Tom Jung’s original painting for the Star Wars: Episode IV — A New Hope half sheet poster, offered directly from the family of legendary Star Wars producer Gary Kurtz. This marks the first time this historic artwork has ever been publicly offered for sale.
Opening at $1 million, the piece stands poised to establish a new benchmark for any Star Wars collectible. It is a centerpiece of Heritage’s Dec. 9-10 Hollywood/Entertainment Signature® Auction.
This extraordinary painting is the first widely published image to ever promote Star Wars — the visual spark that ignited a global phenomenon. First appearing in national newspaper ads on May 13, 1977, nearly two weeks before the film’s release, the dynamic composition introduced audiences to “a galaxy far, far away.” It quickly became the definitive visual identity of Star Wars, later gracing the film’s official program cover, massive 24-sheet billboards, and countless magazine and newspaper ads during its original release.
“Heritage Auctions has had the privilege of offering countless extraordinary pieces of Star Wars history,” says Charles Epting, Heritage’s Director of Pop Culture and Historical Consignments. “But none embody the heart and spirit of the saga quite like this painting. This is the image that launched a mythology — the first glimpse of a universe that continues to inspire awe and wonder nearly 50 years later.”
“It has been an honor to have this wonderful painting with us all these years,” adds Melissa Kurtz, daughter of producer Gary Kurtz. “It serves as a warm reminder of that incredible experience — being part of the making of a film that has touched so many lives.”
Jung’s composition captures everything that defines Star Wars: heroism, romance, conflict and adventure. Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia command the center, framed by Darth Vader’s imposing mask and scenes of cosmic battle. Vignettes of R2-D2, C-3PO and Obi-Wan Kenobi complete the tableau, each rendered with an energy that feels both handmade and cinematic.
Following the film’s release, it hung in Gary Kurtz’s office in San Rafael before moving with him to the family residence, where it has remained ever since — a personal artifact from the very dawn of the Star Wars legend.
This original painting is being offered alongside other landmark Star Wars treasures, including a screen-matched matte painting of the Ewok Village from Return of the Jedi, and the Doug Hott Collection — one of the most comprehensive assemblages of Star Wars posters and action figures ever to reach the market.
“These aren’t just movie artifacts — they’re pieces of our collective imagination,” says Joe Maddalena, Executive Vice President at Heritage Auctions. “Each one represents a moment when storytelling and artistry collided to create magic. We’re thrilled to bring these icons to the fans, collectors and institutions who understand their importance, and will preserve their legacy for generations to come.”
More than a painting, Tom Jung’s Star Wars artwork is a touchstone of modern mythology, a visual anthem that continues to define the power of imagination in film and art alike.
