Updated: September 22, 2023

Hero Laser Pistol from Pilot Episode, "The Cage" of Star Trek: The Original Series ( Paramount TV, 1966-1969 ). Vintage original hero laser pistol constructed of carved and scored resin grip and body, tooled brass and aluminum barrel with three acrylic muzzle emitters, plastic silver-painted typewriter keys applied as side buttons and repurposed steel gear cogs, with two vertical magnets installed on the left side of the body for affixing to an intended utility belt. Designed for the pilot episode "The Cage" of the game-changing sci-fi series by legendary sculptor and artisan Wah Chang, these props were developed so early in the genesis of Star Trek that they weren't yet referred to as "phasers." These prop pistols were also modified with the steel gear cogs added to the butt and clear emitters on the barrel front painted black, as in this example, for subsequent episodes including "Where No Man Has Gone Before," "The Man Trap," and "What Are Little Girls Made Of?" The cap of the barrel rotates, and the resin trigger depresses. Measuring 8.75" x 5" x 2". Exhibiting age, production wear, and minor paint rubbing. Exhibited at the legendary Star Trek: The Exhibit at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, Washington, D.C., February 1992 through January 1993. Featured on page 12 in the book The Art of Star Trek by Judith and Garfield Reeves-Stevens ( Simon & Schuster, 1995 ).

Value: $20,000.