From John Lennon's Sunglasses to Churchill's Cigar: Catherine's Passion for Auctioning Collectables

From Beatles memorabilia and Winston Churchill relics to film props and historic street signs, the world of collectables is built on history and provenance. Understanding these stories, and recognising the significance and value behind each object, has been at the heart of our Managing Director's career for thirty years. Researching ephemera and historic documents and unravelling the stories behind them is one of Catherine’s true passion; piecing the stories together, and achieving the highest possible final price at auction.

Over the years, Catherine has handled some truly remarkable pieces of entertainment and historical memorabilia. 

Among the most celebrated was a pair of sunglasses gifted by John Lennon, which achieved an outstanding £40,000 (+ Buyer's Premium), attracting international interest from Beatles collectors.

Another iconic result came with an original enamelled Abbey Road NW8 street sign, a symbol forever associated with The Beatles, which realised £30,000 (+ Buyer's Premium).

Film memorabilia has also proven exceptionally popular. A Golden Ticket and Wonka Bar from the 1971 film Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, formerly owned by Julie Dawn Cole, who portrayed Veruca Salt, sold for £13,000 (+ Buyer's Premium), demonstrating the enduring appeal of cinema history.

Historic objects with exceptional provenance continue to captivate bidders. A part-smoked cigar belonging to Sir Winston Churchill, collected at Chartwell in 1963 by Police Constable Anthony Gundry, achieved £4,100 (+ Buyer's Premium), while a rare Cartier silver presentation box commissioned for John Lennon and Yoko Ono to commemorate the release of Double Fantasy realised £13,000 (+ Buyer's Premium).

These results reflect not only the strength of the market for important memorabilia, but also the value of specialist knowledge, careful research and international marketing in connecting exceptional objects with the right buyers.

Whether it is a signed album, an autograph book, a historic document, a rare film prop or an item with an extraordinary story to tell, Catherine and her team continue to uncover remarkable treasures through their regular Collectors Auctions. With decades of specialist experience, Catherine remains passionate about helping collectors and families realise the true value of the objects in their care.

If you own music memorabilia, film props, militaria, historical artefacts, rare books or unusual collectables, Catherine would love to hear form you ahead of our final Collectors auction of the year. 

Auction deadline | Friday 21st August 

Auction date | Wednesday 9th September