If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a tangible piece of Walt Disney World history, the chance is coming soon. Van Eaton Galleries is hosting its “Pop Culture and Disney Parks Featuring the Art of Disneyland” auction on December 6, 2025, offering nearly 900 items from Disney parks across the country. From ride props and concept art to costumes and signage, the auction provides collectors a chance to own artifacts that have shaped the Disney parks experience over decades.
This auction stands out for its focus on Walt Disney World in Florida, featuring items tied to beloved attractions such as Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom. The collection spans several decades and includes pieces that both longtime fans and newer Disney enthusiasts will recognize. Among the most eye-catching lots is a decorative element from Magic Kingdom’s Cinderella Castle, part of the resort’s 25th anniversary pink castle makeover.
A Slice of the 25th Anniversary Castle Magic
One of the highlights of the sale is a turquoise “dollop” that once sat above the entrance to Cinderella Castle during the 25th anniversary celebration. Measuring a foot tall and 23 inches in diameter, the piece captures the colorful and bold style of the 1990s Disney anniversary aesthetic. Van Eaton Galleries estimates this item could sell for $500 to $800. For collectors who remember the transformation of the castle for the milestone celebration, owning this element is a direct connection to a truly unique moment in Disney history.
EPCOT’s Y2K Red Star
EPCOT collectors will likely be drawn to an illuminated red star from the early-2000s refurbishment of Spaceship Earth. During the turn-of-the-century makeover, Disney installed a giant Mickey arm and wand alongside the dome, with “2000” signage that was later changed to read “EPCOT.” This 44-inch park-used star is in good condition, with some missing reflectors, and has an estimated auction value of $1,000 to $2,000. It offers a nostalgic look at how Disney celebrated the new millennium in its theme parks.
Animal Kingdom and the Tree of Life
Animal Kingdom is represented by a 14.5-inch leaf prop from the Tree of Life, used inside the “It’s Tough to Be a Bug” attraction. The piece shows signs of wear, including minor scuffs and stains, but remains a rare artifact from the park’s opening years. Van Eaton Galleries estimates its value between $300 and $500, making it an affordable piece for collectors seeking a connection to Animal Kingdom’s immersive storytelling.
Disney Springs Scale Model
A standout for fans of Disney Springs is a 56-inch mixed-media scale model of the shopping area formerly known as Disney Village Marketplace. Created for a presentation by D’Agostino Izzo & Quirk Architects Inc., the model includes detailed depictions of the park’s structures, though it shows minor wear from use. This model is estimated to bring in $2,000 to $4,000 at auction and is a fascinating look at the evolution of Disney’s shopping and entertainment district.
Rare Tomorrowland Poster
Perhaps the most collectible piece in the auction is a poster depicting the 1995 concept for Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom. Designed by George Stokes and Anne Tryba, the poster features Space Mountain, PeopleMover, Astro-Orbitor, and the hub as envisioned for the mid-1990s park. It also includes a star-filled night sky with the tagline, “The Future That Never Was … Is Finally Here!” According to Van Eaton Galleries, this is the only example of the poster ever offered for sale, with an estimated price of $4,000 to $6,000.
Figment Collectibles
Epcot fans will also have their eyes on a collection of Figment-related items, including puppets, props, and costumes from Journey Into Imagination. The auction also features a 3-foot-long Dream Mobile sculpture with Figment and Dreamfinder, created in 1982 by Bill Toma. With only 15 of these sculptures ever produced, the item is estimated to fetch $4,000 to $6,000, making it one of the most valuable WDW items in the sale.
Bidding Information
The Van Eaton Galleries auction allows for online bidding, so collectors from across the country can participate. Interested buyers can view the full catalog and place bids at vegalleries.com. With nearly 900 items on offer, ranging from ride props to concept art and rare souvenirs, this auction is an unmissable opportunity for fans of Walt Disney World memorabilia.
From the whimsical pink castle dollop to the one-of-a-kind Tomorrowland poster, this auction is packed with treasures that celebrate decades of Disney imagination. For collectors and fans alike, these items offer a rare chance to own a piece of the magic and preserve a moment in theme park history.
The case members are also for sale if they are able to leave Orlando. Leaving Florida has been stressful for me but my hourly wage has increased while my living expenses have decreased.