Enterprise Model, Long Believed Stolen From the STAR TREK Set, Resurfaces on eBay
Photos that appeared online with the eBay listing included Leonard Nimoy and William Shatner posing for publicity shots with the model.
NOVEMBER 9, 2023 - The first model of the U.S.S. Enterprise from Star Trek: The Original Series is a very important piece of Star Trek history that up until recently was considered lost forever.
This 3’ scale model was constructed in 1964 by Richard C. Datin as a guide for the 11 foot model. However, tthe 11’ model took a long time to build, so the smaller model was used in many shots both in and out of the series and was used extensively for publicity photo shoots by itself or with series main actors. It was also the last model to ever appear in The Original Series, representing the shrunken starship in “Requiem for Methuselah.”
The model mysteriously disappeared during the production of Star Trek: The Motion Picture and many believed it was stolen. Robert Able and Associates were kicked off the production as a consequence, for failing to meet their obligation to protect the model. That was considered to be the end of the story until early last week when an eBay seller posted a listing for a 3’ scale model of the Enterprise.
The seller posted over 10 images of the model on eBay showing up-close photos of it. Upon close inspection, the model has a very clear resemblance to the original. The saucer is flat which is something only seen in that early model, the nacelles have details only seen in that original model. The shuttlebay door is missing from the original model and the one on eBay. The model on eBay has the same damage that the original does. Some individuals also compared the wood grain of the original model and the model on eBay and found even more similarities. All that is to say, it’s pretty clear that this is the original model or an absolutely amazing remake.
The listing has now been taken off eBay and according to the original seller it is “with a proper team.” Rod Roddenbery, Gene Roddenbery’s son, posted about it on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Super excited someone discovered this treasure! It would mean a lot to talk with whomever is selling/in possession of the 3' Enterprise. Appreciate anyone who can put me in touch, and connect us! Engage!
— Rod Roddenberry (@RodRoddenberry) November 3, 2023
~ Rod#StarTrek #enterprise #roddenberry pic.twitter.com/d1QPtlszij
No more news has come up about the model however we will probably be hearing more about it soon if it truly is the real thing.
Aster is a fresh face to Daily Star Trek News, joining the ranks as a contributing writer. Though he may be young, he self-describes as a hardcore nerd, lover of cheese sticks and niche internet discourse. Outside of his long-time obsession with Star Trek, Aster is an avid cosplayer, crocheter, and Catan enthusiast who is attending school for technical theater and design. He's very excited to debut in his "professional nerd career" and finally put all his obscure nerd facts to good use.
