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Credit: dylanw216, UnsplashDisney fans and collectors, get ready to bid on some of the most unique and nostalgic pieces of Walt Disney World history. Van Eaton Galleries is preparing to host its “Pop Culture and Disney Parks Featuring the Art of Disneyland” auction on December 6, 2025, offering nearly 900 lots that span the full spectrum of Disney memorabilia.
From ride props and animatronic components to costume pieces and signage, this auction promises to give Disney enthusiasts a chance to take home a tangible piece of the magic.
While Disney auctions are not uncommon, this event stands out for its deep dive into the Florida parks specifically. Collectors will find items tied to iconic attractions at Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Animal Kingdom, with some pieces dating back decades.
Among the offerings is a particularly sweet piece of history: a decorative element from the 25th anniversary pink makeover of Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom. This is not just any piece of décor—it’s a direct link to one of Disney World’s most radical refurbishments, a whimsical nod to a celebration that transformed the castle into a festive, storybook spectacle.
The Magic Kingdom 25th Anniversary “Dollop”
The highlight for many collectors is the turquoise “dollop” that was placed above the entrance to Cinderella Castle during the resort’s 25th anniversary. Standing a foot tall and 23 inches in diameter, this decorative element embodies the bold and colorful style of Disney’s early-1990s anniversary celebrations.
Van Eaton Galleries estimates that this item could fetch between $500 and $800, making it an accessible yet highly coveted piece of Disney history. For fans who remember the pink castle and the accompanying celebration, owning this dollop is a way to hold onto a tangible slice of the park’s past.
EPCOT Memorabilia: A Glimpse Back at Y2K
EPCOT collectors will also be intrigued by an illuminated red star from the turn-of-the-century revamp of Spaceship Earth. In the lead-up to the year 2000, Disney added a giant Mickey arm and wand alongside the iconic geodesic dome, complete with “2000” signage. After the new millennium arrived, the signage was altered to read “EPCOT” in script.
This 44-inch red star, which still carries some of its original park wear, is estimated to sell for between $1,000 and $2,000. For those nostalgic for the Y2K-era EPCOT, this piece represents a fleeting but unforgettable moment in Disney World’s visual history.
Animal Kingdom Leaf Prop
For fans of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the auction includes a 14.5-inch leaf from the park’s Tree of Life. The leaf was used in the “It’s Tough to Be a Bug” attraction, adding a touch of park realism to the immersive experience.
Though it shows signs of use—including minor stains, scruffs, and scratches—this prop remains a distinctive artifact from the opening years of Animal Kingdom, with an estimated auction price of $300 to $500. Even subtle pieces like this can hold significant sentimental value for collectors who want to celebrate the park’s rich storytelling legacy.
Disney Springs Scale Model
Another standout item is a scale model of what was formerly known as Disney Village Marketplace, created by D’Agostino Izzo & Quirk Architects Inc. This 56-inch mixed-media model was part of an enhancement study presentation and showcases the shopping area as it existed before Disney Springs underwent its major transformation.
Despite some wear, including fallen trees and loose adhesives, the model remains in good condition. Auction estimates place the starting bid between $2,000 and $4,000, making it a must-have for fans who appreciate Disney’s architectural and design history.
Tomorrowland Concept Poster
Perhaps the most extraordinary item in the auction is a rare poster featuring the 1995 concept for Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom. Designed by George Stokes and Anne Tryba, the poster highlights Space Mountain, PeopleMover, Astro-Orbitor, and the plaza as envisioned from the park hub. A star-filled night sky and the slogan, “The Future That Never Was … Is Finally Here!” add to the sense of whimsy and futuristic optimism that defined Tomorrowland during the mid-1990s.
Van Eaton Galleries notes that this is the only example of this poster they have ever seen offered for auction, with a pre-auction estimate of $4,000 to $6,000. For collectors of Disney art and theme park history, this is a rare and highly desirable item.
Other Collectible Highlights
In addition to these headline lots, the auction includes nearly 900 items ranging from ride props and signage to costumes for animatronics and cast members. Figment enthusiasts will find a variety of A Journey Into Imagination items, including puppets, props, and costumes, as well as a 3-foot-long sculpture of the Dream Mobile airship featuring Figment and Dreamfinder.
This sculpture, created in 1982 by Bill Toma and one of only 15 produced, is estimated to fetch between $4,000 and $6,000, making it the most expensive of the Walt Disney World items in this sale.
Bidding and Participation
Bidders can participate online, allowing collectors from across the country—or even the globe—to take part in this one-of-a-kind Disney event. Anyone interested in exploring the full catalog or placing bids can visit Van Eaton Galleries’ website at vegalleries.com.
With such a wide variety of unique pieces from multiple parks and decades, this auction is a rare opportunity for Disney fans to own something that connects them directly to the magic of Walt Disney World.
Whether you are a collector, a fan of Disney history, or someone simply looking to add a conversation piece to your home, the December 6 auction offers a treasure trove of options. From the playful pink castle “dollop” to the visionary Tomorrowland poster, these artifacts celebrate Disney World’s storied past, preserving the memories of decades of imagination, innovation, and enchantment.