The first three films, released to theaters between 1977 and 1983, are essential for any fan. They were released on VHS and LaserDisc, with Special Edition versions, which include altered footage, available on DVD since the early 2000s. The second trilogy, released between 1999 and 2005, is available on DVD. A nine-disc Blu-Ray set with all six films is scheduled for release in September 2011. Also available are novels, comic books, graphic novels, games and an animated series called "The Clone Wars." That series, which is set within the "Star Wars" universe between the film series, is also available on DVD and Blu-Ray.
Though most items can be found through online auctions and shops, rare "Star Wars" memorabilia is most likely to turn up at science fiction conventions. Autographs are good mementos; a trading card autographed by the late Alec Guinness has a list price of $200. The conventions tend to get the exclusive items first, such as "Star Wars" swag and lightsaber bookends that light up. It's also a good place to find imported "Star Wars" gear.
"Star Wars" was one of the first films to exploit merchandising. Vintage toys are treasures to a collector and tend to be expensive. As of 2011, a vintage Micro Collection Falcon missing its box, ramp and action figures cost $149.99. A vintage Millennium Falcon in its box with new contents, including a Bespin photo, was listed for $449.99. A vintage, foreign boxed set of six figures and their trading cards from "Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back" cost $999.99.
Most any article of clothing or accessory is available with some kind of "Star Wars" tie-in. "Star Wars" T-shirts, caps, sleepwear and jackets are easy to find. A gift of a full costume or uniform part is a good bet for someone really into the "Star Wars" universe. Some possibilities include replicas of Han Solo's vest, Leia's bikini from the Jabba the Hut encounter or a full suit of Storm Trooper armor.
Admission to "Star Wars Celebration," the all "Star Wars"convention, can be a gift in itself. Attendees get to glory in all that is "Star Wars", from costumed patrons to question and answer sessions with stars like Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia) and Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker). The fifth Celebration was held in August of 2010 in Orlando, Florida. Tickets started at $35 for kids and $55 for adults for a single-day session. As of March 2011, no date had been announced for another Celebration.