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The 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026 is sparking a surge of interest in the Revolutionary War, particularly through films, TV shows, and collectibles. Ken Burns’ upcoming documentary The American Revolution, set to release in November 2025, is already generating anticipation. Narrated by Tom Hanks and Morgan Freeman, the documentary is expected to follow the style of Burns’ acclaimed Civil War series. This renewed focus on the Revolutionary War has brought attention to the rich history of movies, TV shows, and memorabilia centered on this pivotal period in American history.
The Cinematic Landscape of the Revolutionary War
The Revolutionary War has been a popular subject in Hollywood, with films spanning generations. Classics like Drums Along the Mohawk (1939), starring Henry Fonda, and modern epics like The Patriot (2000), starring Mel Gibson, have left a lasting impact. While The Patriot is often criticized for its historical inaccuracies, it remains a notable example of Hollywood’s fascination with the era. Even less successful films, such as Al Pacino’s Revolution (1985), which temporarily derailed his career, contribute to the genre’s legacy. On the small screen, TV movies like The Crossing and series like Turn: Washington’s Spies have garnered critical acclaim, offering nuanced portrayals of the war. This diverse array of productions ensures that there is something for every Revolutionary War enthusiast.
Collectibles: Props and Costumes
Original props and costumes from Revolutionary War films are highly sought after by collectors. Items from The Patriot have been particularly valuable. For example, a non-firing musket replica used in the film sold for $1,500, accompanied by signed photos of Mel Gibson and Heath Ledger. A cavalry saber prop used by one of Colonel Tavington’s Loyalist dragoons fetched $510 in 2020, while a pair of boots worn by Gibson in his role as Benjamin Martin sold for $2,000 in 2023. A British officer’s uniform from the film reached $600 in the same year. These items are likely to increase in value as the 250th anniversary approaches.
Even films not directly about the war, like Disney’s National Treasure, feature Revolutionary War-inspired costumes. One such costume, depicting a frozen soldier, sold for $400 in 2021. High-quality generic prop costumes, such as a British grenadier uniform, can also fetch hundreds of dollars, with one selling for $338 in 2023.
Movie Posters
Movie posters from Revolutionary War films vary widely in value, depending on factors like age, rarity, and the presence of autographs. A 27 x 40 poster of The Patriot signed by Mel Gibson sold for $900 in 2022, while an unsigned poster of the same size and condition fetched just $14 in 2025. Posters for Revolution (1985) are notably inexpensive, with one selling for $15 in 2024. However, original posters from the golden age of Hollywood, such as the striking Drums Along the Mohawk (1939) poster, can command high prices, with one selling for $1,680 in 2022 despite the absence of signatures. Mass-produced posters generally hold little value unless they bear the autograph of a lead actor.
Autographs
Autographs of principal actors from Revolutionary War films are also collectible items. Mel Gibson, known for his role in The Patriot, frequently signs autographs, with signed photographs available for under $100 as of 2025. Autographs from Hollywood’s golden age, such as those of Henry Fonda, can be acquired relatively cheaply. A well-worn publicity card signed by Fonda sold for $70 in 2024. In contrast, Al Pacino’s autograph remains highly valuable; a hand-signed movie still from Revolution sold for $350 in 2025, reflecting his enduring popularity.
The Future of Revolutionary War Collectibles
The next decade will see a resurgence of interest in Revolutionary War collectibles, driven by new documentaries, films, and TV shows. While Hollywood’s portrayal of the era often takes creative liberties—The Patriot being a prime example—this does not diminish the value of associated props, posters, and autographs. Items from Hollywood’s golden age remain the most collectible due to their age and scarcity. Autographs of iconic actors like Al Pacino and Mel Gibson are also likely to retain their value over time.
Final Thoughts
As the 250th anniversary of the United States approaches, the Revolutionary War is being celebrated and revisited through various media and memorabilia. From Ken Burns’ eagerly anticipated documentary to the enduring appeal of films like The Patriot and Drums Along the Mohawk, the era continues to captivate audiences. Collectors are drawn to the tangible connections to these productions, whether through props, costumes, posters, or autographs. While historical accuracy may sometimes be sacrificed for entertainment, the cultural and monetary value of these items remains undiminished.
About the Author: Matthew Doherty is a writer, editor, and teacher specializing in history. His work has been published in the UK Defence Journal, the Small Wars Journal, and The Collector. He holds an MSc from the University of Edinburgh and a BA from the University of Leeds. In his spare time, he writes science fiction stories.
