This is not a piece of film memorabilia. This is the foundational corporate instrument that made cinematic history possible. Dated February 15, 1985, this three-page licensing agreement is the definitive paper trail of the deal between a struggling automaker and a major studio—the very transaction that selected the DeLorean DMC-12 to become the Back to the Future time machine.
The contract details are stark and telling: the purchase of five vehicles at a discounted $25,000 each from the troubled Belfast factory, delivered directly to Universal's Special Effects department. More importantly, it grants the perpetual license for the car's distinctive design and trademarks, a clause that would cement its iconic status forever. It is a snapshot of a pivotal business decision, bearing the historic, opposing signatures of two titans: John Z. DeLorean, the embattled visionary chairman, and Universal President Sidney J. Sheinberg.
This document captures the exact moment before legend took over. Before the flux capacitor, before the lightning strike, there was this deal—a fragile corporate agreement that would accidentally ensure immortality for a failed car. It is the ultimate artifact for collectors of cinema, automotive history, and the unpredictable alchemy of pop culture.
Key Details:
Artifact: Original 1985 Licensing & Sales Agreement
Parties: DeLorean Motor Company & Universal City Studios, Inc.
Purpose: Authorizes vehicle purchase/license for Back to the Future
Key Terms: Sale of 5 DMC-12s, perpetual likeness rights, film credit.
Signatories: John Z. DeLorean and Sidney J. Sheinberg
Date: February 15, 1985
Condition: Very Good, with clear text and signatures. Professionally conserved.
Authentication: Full forensic notarized verification and provenance report.
Presentation: Housed in a museum-grade archival portfolio.