Jack Nicholson’s – A blood-stained axe used by Jack Nicholson in “The Shining” is set to go on auction in Scotland with an estimate of over $100,000, tied to the film’s infamous scene where Jack Torrance kills Dick Hallorann.
When the lobby card of “The Shining” flashes across the screen, it’s the moment that sticks: Nicholson’s Jack Torrance arrives to do something irreversible. Now, one of the tools behind that terror is headed to the auction block.
An axe used by Jack Nicholson in “The Shining” is going up for auction in Scotland by McTear’s auction house. The iconic prop—complete with blood stains— is expected to earn 100,000 ($134,000).
The auction listing ties this specific axe to the scene where Nicholson’s Jack Torrance kills Dick Hallorann. played by Scatman Crothers. when he arrives at the Overlook Hotel. The listing also stresses how this weapon was engineered for what appears on screen: a violent burst of blood. made to happen quickly and convincingly while protecting the actor.
“Unlike the standard hero axes used throughout production. this effects version was engineered to rupture concealed blood bags hidden beneath Hallorann’s costume during filming. ” the listing explains. “The axe featured a modified leading edge with protruding bolts designed to penetrate the costume layers and grab the fiberglass plate beneath. creating the violent blood burst effect seen onscreen while maintaining actor safety.”.
McTear’s listing further says it is one of only three special effects axes produced for the film, with the other two believed to be with “The Shining” director Stanley Kubrick’s estate.
The axe isn’t the only pop-culture artifact planned for the sale. The auction is set for June 3 and includes a guitar Bob Dylan played while on tour with Carlos Santana in 1984. valued at an estimated 30. 000 to 60. 000 ($40. 000–$80. 000). There’s also Beatles memorabilia. including reel-to-reel tapes and recording equipment linked to the band’s first visit to the U.S. tied to Paul McCartney. Ringo Starr. George Harrison. and John Lennon.
Other listings include James Bond posters and props and David Bowie designs related to Glasgow’s Apollo Theater.
Sean Bruce Gillies, McTear’s film and pop culture specialist, said, “This is without question one of the most important and wide-ranging entertainment memorabilia sales ever held in Scotland.”
The Shining Jack Nicholson axe McTear’s auction Scotland auction Stanley Kubrick estate Scatman Crothers Overlook Hotel Bob Dylan guitar Carlos Santana Beatles memorabilia James Bond posters David Bowie Apollo Theater