“Saga Vault”’s Dan Lanigan Reveals the George Lucas-Owned “Star Wars” Collectible That’s Eluded Him for 30 Years (Exclusive)

**The Story Behind Collecting: Dan Lanigan’s Journey into the World of Star Wars Memorabilia**

In the realm of fandom, few franchises hold the weight of significance that Star Wars commands. For many enthusiasts, acquiring memorabilia like lightsaber replicas or vintage action figures is the pinnacle of passion. However, for Dan Lanigan, an esteemed filmmaker and lifelong collector, this is merely the tip of the iceberg.

Lanigan, 45, is at the helm of a new YouTube series titled *Saga Vault*, which showcases collectors of rare Star Wars memorabilia and delves into the inspiring narratives that accompany these cherished items. The series not only celebrates the extraordinary collectibles but also emphasises the personal stories of the enthusiasts behind them.

“Star Wars is arguably the largest movie franchise in history, particularly in the last half-century,” Lanigan remarks. “The product offerings are extensive, making every individual collection a unique snapshot of fan dedication.” He believes it is the diverse tales of these collectors that bring vital life and context to the pieces they covet.

Together with his collaborator Jason Henry, Lanigan has transitioned from traditional television to YouTube, having previously co-created Disney+’s acclaimed series *Prop Culture*. Their new venture allows them to engage with a broader audience in a more accessible format while still shining a light on the artistry and history of film props.

Lanigan’s passion for collecting was ignited at a tender age of seven, when he got his hands on Kenner toys and Star Wars magazine editions. “I’ve been a collector ever since,” he shares, noting that the items featured in *Saga Vault* stem from his own expansive collection. Among his prized possessions are two Master Replicas AT-AT (All Terrain Armored Transport) models that echo the unforgettable moments from *The Empire Strikes Back*. His love for cinema extends beyond Star Wars, however, encompassing props from iconic films such as *Blade Runner*, *Indiana Jones*, and *The Nightmare Before Christmas*.

One cannot discuss Lanigan’s collection without mentioning his fascination with Darth Vader. “He is tall, menacing, and enigmatic — an extraordinary design combined with an unforgettable voice,” he explains, adding that Vader has always been the ultimate villain in his eyes. Among his cherished items is a Hot Toys figure featuring removable helmet pieces and a lightsaber that lights up. Remarkably, Lanigan is unafraid to take his items out of their boxes, allowing him to enjoy them in their full glory.

Even with decades of collecting under his belt, Lanigan continues to seek a particular piece that has eluded him for thirty years: an original stop-motion AT-AT model from *The Empire Strikes Back*. However, he acknowledges the challenges of the hunt, with only five models created and all currently owned by George Lucas. “He’s not likely to part with them any time soon,” Lanigan quips.

While Lanigan’s accumulation of memorabilia is impressive, the collectors featured on *Saga Vault* bring collections to another level. Iconic figures in the Star Wars collecting community, including Steve Sansweet and Lisa Stevens, showcase their incredible troves, reflecting a shared dedication to preservation and passion for the franchise.

For Lanigan, collecting transcends mere ownership; it embodies the act of preserving history. “What we are ultimately collecting is someone else’s narrative along with a piece of cinematic history,” he argues, seeing himself and his fellow collectors as “armchair archivists.”

The collaborative nature of their collecting has led to a remarkable idea: combining their assets to create one of the largest Star Wars collections in existence. Lanigan observes that this collective effort could transform into a permanent fixture, perhaps even a museum dedicated to the remarkable world of Star Wars.

“The items may just be objects, but they carry profound meanings,” he reflects. “What truly imparts significance are the connections we form to the films and shows.” This philosophy drives the narrative of *Saga Vault*, correlating the importance of personal preservation with the joy of fandom.

With the series now available on the Cinema Relics YouTube channel, fans are encouraged to explore the world of collectibles that extends beyond mere physical items, offering deeper insights into the lives and passions of Star Wars enthusiasts. For Dan Lanigan, collecting is about shared experiences, dreams, and the stories that bind fans together, encouraging an ongoing dialogue about the legacy of one of cinema’s most beloved franchises.