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Original Stop-Motion Puppets from “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” Going Up for Auction

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, by production company Rankin/Bass, is a stop-motion animation classic and the world’s longest continuously running Christmas TV special; since its debut in 1964, it’s been on the airwaves every year.

Incredibly, the original Santa and Rudolph puppets used in the production not only still exist, but appear to be in remarkable condition–and will soon go up for auction. “Years ago, I visited the owner of these puppets during one of the episodes of [TV show] Hollywood Treasure, and I was never able to shake them from my mind,” writes Hollywood memorabilia collector Peter Lutrario, on behalf of auction house Profiles in History.

“Finally, after all of these years, he has decided to pass ownership of these enormously famous characters to a new owner. It is with great pride and enthusiasm that we make this special offering as we usher in the 2020 Holiday Season.”

“Beautifully crafted by Japanese puppet maker Ichiro Komuro, the puppets are crafted of wood, wire, cloth, leather and yak hair. Santa stands 11 inches tall and Rudolph stands 6 inches.”

“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Auction 126” goes live on November 13th at 11am PST, with online bidding available.