Darth Vader's $1 million lightsaber could be yours in rare 'Star Wars' auction

Ever dreamed of being a Jedi or wielding a lightsaber like Darth Vader?

Whether you're rooting for the light side or embracing the dark, there's no denying that the iconic weapons and props helped define the "Star Wars" universe.

Now, fans and collectors have a chance to own a piece of that galaxy far, far away.

Heritage Auctions is bringing an impressive collection of "Star Wars" memorabilia to the auction block, featuring everything from blasters and lightsabers to replica costume pieces.

Brian Chanes, Senior Director of Hollywood and Entertainment at Heritage Auctions, says it's a collection unlike anything he's seen in his career.

"I've been doing this for 35 years, and I've never seen a compilation of screen-used lightsabers like this, from the original franchise to the sequels," he told On The Red Carpet.

Among the standout pieces are Chewbacca's bowcaster from "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," artwork signed by cast members and Boba Fett's rifle from the bounty hunter's film debut.

And for collectors seeking authenticity, these props have been thoroughly vetted and come with the certifications to prove it.

"It's a photo serial number matched and it's screen matched, and it was used by Jeremy Bulloch, when you saw him in his debut as bounty hunter Boba Fett in 'Empire Strike Back,'" Chanes said.

But the crown jewel of the collection may be a lightsaber hilt wielded by Darth Vader himself during both "The Empire Strikes Back" and "Return of the Jedi."

With a starting bid of more than $1 million, the piece has played a role in one of the most unforgettable moments in movie history.

"If you're going to have a face of the franchise, good vs. evil, 'Luke, I am your father,' this is the lightsaber that was used in that scene when he severed Luke's hand. It's the one on the set. It's from the most iconic sequence of the entire franchise. From a memorabilia standpoint, this is the holy grail," Chanes said.

So, what makes someone willing to spend seven figures on a piece of movie memorabilia?

For Chanes, it comes down to something money can't quite measure: nostalgia.

"I always tell people that memorabilia, the M-E-M portion, is your memories, what you remember when you first saw the first 'Star Wars' film. It basically takes you to the happy place when you first saw it, and it's a feel-good thing," he said.

The auction goes live Nov. 12 at www.ha.com.