As lockdowns due to COVID-19 continue around the world, auction prices for autographs and memorabilia have risen above inflation and collectors and investors alike have had time to seek out the most interesting items. On 27 January, Chaucer Auctions is continuing its series of highly successful ‘Select’ auctions with a sale curated by Garry King of Autografica. Auctografica is a weekend signing event in London that has run for over a decade, hosting all kinds of celebrities, from Hollywood and European film stars to history-making astronauts, and King’s insight and expertise helped him select 55 exemplary lots for the auction.
Autographs from famous figures such as those featured by Chaucer Auctions appreciate greatly over time, making them a worthy investment. While twenty years ago a signature from the Apollo 11 astronaut Neil Armstrong could be purchased for around £100, today those same items would be £1,000 or more. This typed letter from Neil Armstrong was written in response to a fundraising request from the National Ex-Prisoners of War Association, and is complete with a hand signed salutation and initials on Armstrong’s personal letterhead.
All autographs from Chaucer Auctions come with a certificate of authenticity, an important detail when dealing and collecting autographs. This rare multiple signed cover from the beloved television series Blackadder features the signatures of several stars – Rowan Atkinson, Stephen Fry, Tony Robinson, Tim McInnerny and Hugh Laurie, all of whom are present in the photograph of the cast.
Sir Sean Connery, the first actor to portray the iconic secret agent James Bond, was awarded the Freedom of the City of Edinburgh in 1991 to honour his achievement as an ambassador of the city, his commitment to children's education, and his distinguished artistic career. This invitation for the ceremony showcases Connery’s autograph, and is also signed by his wife, Micheline Connery, as well as the Formula One driver Jackie Steward and the actor Tom Conti.
A special treat for philatelists and fans of the royal family alike, this collectable presentation pack of stamps was released by Royal Mail in 2000 for the 100th birthday of the Queen Mother. Each stamp features a portrait of a member of the royal family, and the set is signed by Queen Elizabeth’s grandson, Charles, Prince of Wales.
Among the star items in the sale is a two-piece designer cocktail dress accompanied by a hand-written letter from the iconic actress Audrey Hepburn. The dress was previously sold at Christies, and was originally given to the consignor as a gift from Hepburn.
Audrey Hepburn is still adored the world over for her timeless style and charming demeanour, and the demand for pieces associated with the famous actress is exceptionally high. Previously, similar items of hers have sold at auction for several thousand pounds, with the Givenchy gown she wore as Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s selling for over £467,000 in 2006.
The black lace halter-top dress is completed by a matching short-sleeve bolero, which is adorned with a gold floral brooch. The set was given as a Christmas present by Hepburn to her friend, who later consigned the piece to Christie’s. Written in a loopy cursive, Hepburn’s letter thanks her friend and wishes her a merry Christmas.
In addition to the famous figures already detailed above, other prominent names appearing during the auction include Kate Bush, Amy Winehouse, the astronauts Gene Cernan, Dave Scott, Ed Mitchell and Alan Bean, Humphrey Bogart, Judy Garland, Muhammad Ali, Nelson Mandela, and many others. With lower prices than dealers, minimal auction fees and a lifetime guarantee on all items, Chaucer Auctions is making it easier than ever to collect extraordinary pieces.
The Chaucer Select Autograph Auction will take place on 27 January at 6:00 pm, with live online bidding available on multiple platforms.
