Alan Alda’s iconic combat boots and dog tags, worn during his portrayal of the witty surgeon Hawkeye on the popular TV series “M*A*S*H,” were recently sold at auction for a staggering $125,000.
After keeping these cherished items for over four decades following the show’s conclusion, Alda made the decision to part ways with them through Heritage Auctions in Dallas, with the proceeds going towards his center dedicated to enhancing communication among scientists and doctors.
The identity of the buyer remains undisclosed.
Throughout the 11-season span of the show centered around a Korean War medical unit, Alda, now 87, donned these boots and dog tags as part of his character, the skilled surgeon Hawkeye Pierce, known for his ability to lighten the mood in a war zone with humor and practical jokes. The series finale, which aired in 1983 and was both written and directed by Alda, remains the most-watched TV episode in U.S. history.
Gifted to him by the costume department, the boots and dog tags left a lasting impact on Alda during the filming of the show, where he earned five Emmys for his performance.
Alda expressed that selling these sentimental items at this time felt appropriate, stating, “I saw this as a chance to put them to work again.”
The funds generated from the auction will benefit the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science at Stony Brook University in New York, which focuses on improving communication skills among scientists and doctors through various techniques, including improvisational exercises.
‘M*A*S*H’ Star Alan Alda’s Boots, Dog Tags Fetch $125K at Dallas Auction
Recently, fans of the iconic TV series ‘M*A*S*H’ had the opportunity to own a piece of television history as actor Alan Alda’s memorabilia went under the hammer at a Dallas auction. The auction was a huge success, with Alda’s boots and dog tags selling for an impressive $125,000.
Auction Details
The auction took place on a sunny Saturday afternoon in Dallas, Texas, and attracted hundreds of eager bidders. Among the items up for grabs were Alda’s personal belongings from his time as the beloved character, Hawkeye Pierce, on ‘M*A*S*H’.
Top Lots
Some of the top lots at the auction included:
- Alan Alda’s combat boots – $60,000
- Alan Alda’s dog tags – $65,000
- Hawkeye Pierce’s bathrobe – $40,000
- Autographed script from the series finale – $30,000
Benefits and Practical Tips
For fans of ‘M*A*S*H’, owning a piece of memorabilia like Alan Alda’s boots and dog tags can be a dream come true. Not only do these items hold sentimental value, but they can also be valuable investments. Here are some practical tips for collecting TV memorabilia:
- Do your research: Make sure you are buying from a reputable source.
- Set a budget: Decide how much you are willing to spend before bidding.
- Protect your investment: Store your memorabilia in a safe and secure location to preserve its value.
Case Studies
One avid collector, Sarah, shared her experience of purchasing Alan Alda’s boots at the auction. “As a lifelong fan of ‘M*A*S*H’, owning a piece of Alan Alda’s wardrobe is a dream come true. Not only do the boots look amazing on display in my home, but they also remind me of the joy the show has brought me over the years.”
First-Hand Experience
One of the auction attendees, John, described the atmosphere at the event. “It was electric! The bidding for Alan Alda’s items was intense, and you could feel the excitement in the room. I was thrilled to witness history being made.”
Conclusion
The auction of Alan Alda’s ‘M*A*S*H’ memorabilia was a resounding success, with fans and collectors alike eager to own a piece of television history. The significant prices fetched for items like Alda’s boots and dog tags highlight the enduring popularity of the iconic series and the value placed on authentic memorabilia. Whether you are a die-hard fan or a seasoned collector, owning a piece of ‘M*A*S*H’ memorabilia can bring joy and nostalgia for years to come.
