The Wizard of Oz (MGM, 1939), Margaret Hamilton "Wicked Witch of the West" Screen-Worn Flying Hat. ...

Description

The Wizard of Oz (MGM, 1939), Margaret Hamilton "Wicked Witch of the West" Screen-Worn Flying Hat. Few artifacts from Hollywood's Golden Age are as instantly recognizable as the Ruby Slippers and the Wicked Witch of the West's hat. Both transcend mere costume to become enduring cultural symbols, inseparable from one of the most iconic films ever made, The Wizard of Oz. Margaret Hamilton's portrayal of the Wicked Witch remains the definitive screen witch, embodying one of cinema's most indelible characters in what is arguably the most beloved fantasy film of all time.

This vintage, original Adrian-designed signature hat is constructed of black wool bunting with a wide brim reinforced by an interior metal hoop. The towering cone-shaped crown, measuring 13.75" high with a heavy canvas lining, is set at a rearward tilt to create the character's distinctive silhouette. The brim spans 19.5" in diameter, extending 6.75" at the front and 5.75" at the rear. Of the few surviving examples, this version is distinguished by its original 22" elastic chinstrap, used to secure the hat to Hamilton's head during the unforgettable flying sequences. (The Wicked Witch hat from the famed collection of Oz authority Michael Shaw, sold by Heritage Auctions on December 7, 2024, also retained its chinstrap.)

The audience's first encounter with the Witch-when Dorothy (Judy Garland) gazes from her airborne farmhouse during the tornado, only to see Miss Gulch pedaling her bicycle before transforming into the Wicked Witch, broomstick in hand. The seamless transition between these two guises instantly cemented Hamilton's character as one of film history's greatest villains.

The hat shows expected age and production wear, including three areas (each approximately 1") of old adhesive residue on the underside of the brim. The hat has undergone recent, sensitive professional conservation to tighten the brim to the cone. The provenance of this hat is exceptional: originally acquired directly in 1970 from David Weisz, owner of The David Weisz Co., which conducted the legendary MGM Auction of that year.

Heritage Auctions' sale of the Shaw hat in December 2024 achieved a record $2.93 million, and this is the only other known Wicked Witch hat to feature the chinstrap to come to auction, indicating its use in flying sequences. Apart from the Ruby Slippers, no other Wizard of Oz artifact carries greater significance. The historical and pop culture significance of this Hollywood artifact transcends generations, and, to this day, continues to mesmerize people from all over the world. Indeed, in the wildly popular modern Broadway musical and 2024 feature film Wicked, and the late November 2025 release of its sequel, Wicked: For Good, the witch hat symbolizes Elphaba's transformation into the "Wicked Witch of the West". As the story unfolds, the world labels Elphaba as "wicked" due to her defiance and pursuit of justice, even though her intentions are often good. This is a museum-worthy relic from the making of one of cinema's most enduring masterpieces. The importance of this piece cannot be overstated. Comes with a COA from Heritage Auctions.

Heritage Auctions provides as much information as possible but strongly encourages in-person inspection. Condition statements are offered as general guidance only, not as complete representations of fact, and do not constitute a warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted but may be visible in the photos, which are considered part of the condition report. Lots estimated at $1,000 or less are not de-framed for inspection, and we may be unable to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and is not liable for damage to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or artwork that has shifted in the frame. All lots are sold "AS IS" under our Terms & Conditions of Auction.