Beatles Sales Document for Apple Corp Building Featured in Marvels of Modern Music Auction May 19
BOSTON, MA--A rare contract concerning the terms of sale of The Beatles Apple Corp headquarters will be auctioned by Boston-based, RR Auction.
“It’s likely one of the final Beatles documents fully signed by all four members,” said Robert Livingston, Executive VP at RR Auction.
The eleven page signed document, dated November 8, 1980. Contract concerning the terms of sale, “the property known as 3 Savile Row W.1.” The document consists of four identical copies of the same agreement, each signed at the conclusion by a member of the Beatles. Bound with a clip at the left edge, with a few pages detached.
“This document was formally adopted in late November of 1980, thus making it one of the last documents signed by John Lennon during his life,” said Frank Caiazzo, a noted Beatles expert in a letter of authenticity that accompanies the sale. “John Lennon signed in black felt tip pen, and has added a facial caricature, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr (who has signed as R. Starkey, his legal name as required on documents), have all signed in blue ballpoint,” added Caiazzo.
The Beatles purchased 3 Savile Row in London in June 1968. Each member of the Fab Four had his own office, and a studio was installed in the basement, where they spent much of the next year and a half recording Let It Be. In January 1969, the band ascended the stairs and would surprise the central London office and fashion district with an impromptu concert from the rooftop. In a 42-minute set, the Beatles were heard playing nine takes of five songs in what would be their final performance together.
“This document represents a major landmark in the history of popular music— with the final sale of the Beatles' Apple Corps building, it was truly the end of an era,” said Robert Livingston, Executive VP at RR Auction. (Estimate: $80,000+)
Additional highlights include:
Beatles ‘Sgt. Peppers’ album signed by McCartney, Harrison, and Starr. (Estimate: $20,000+)
Jimi Hendrix autograph letter signed in the year of Electric Ladyland. (Estimate: $30,000+)
Eric Clapton-played replica of the ‘Fool’ 1961 Les Paul SG. (Estimate: $35,000+)
Johnny Ramone’s stage-used custom Hamer guitar. (Estimate: $40,000+)
John Lennon signed deposition concerning ‘Come Together’ and Chuck Berry plagiarism. (Estimate: $8,000+)
The Marvels of Modern Music auction from RR Auction will feature more than 500 items. Bidding for the online auction that began on May 12 and will conclude on May 19. More details can be found online at www.rrauction.com.
