Debbie Reynolds to present final auction of Hollywood collectibles

NORTH HOLLYWOOD, Calif. (KABC) -- After six decades of preserving Hollywood history, actress Debbie Reynolds is almost done offering her treasures to the public. She's calling her third sale of collectible items "Debbie Reynolds: The Auction Finale."

Reynolds has been pretty busy with the last in a series of her movie memorabilia auctions. Saving Hollywood history turned into a lifetime of preserving the past -- some 60 years' worth.

Since Reynolds couldn't find one home for all her precious items, they've gone out to people near and far. Thousands of pieces worth millions of dollars were cared for with great responsibility. When no one cared to save it, Reynolds just couldn't let it go.

"Because that would be throwing it away, and that's what MGM did and Fox and Columbia," said Reynolds. "I just started collecting when they were liquidating and it just broke my heart so I couldn't bear that it would happen to so many marvelous things."

This auction, in conjunction with Profiles in History, includes several film cameras. One was used long ago for "Frankenstein" and "Dracula." A Panavision camera shot "The Exorcist" and "The French Connection."

Also featured are Charlie Chaplin's bowler hat, a dress worn by Grace Kelly in "Mogambo" and one worn by Ingrid Bergman and Angela Lansbury in two separate movies.

There's also a dress Barbara Stanwyck wore in 1953's "Titanic."

"And what a beautiful dress it is. She was a beautiful lady and a grand lady. She was a very kind, wonderful person. It is still really pretty," said Reynolds.

They say "there's no place like home." Maybe your home will house part of Reynolds' collection.

"This is just part of my life, so if someone buys it, they can invite me over. We'll have dinner," said Reynolds.

The auction takes place this Saturday and Sunday, May 17-18, at Debbie Reynolds' Dance Studio at 6514 Lankershim Boulevard in North Hollywood. It begins at 11 a.m. on both days. Auction previews will be held at the studio 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. through Friday, May 16, as well.

Bidders can participate in person, by telephone, submit absentee bids or participate online in real time from anywhere with Internet access across the globe. For more details and to register, go to www.ProfilesInHistory.com.