George Harrison's Beatles Suit Coat, Circa 1963. Between late-1962 and roughly the release of Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts ...

Description

George Harrison's Beatles Suit Coat, Circa 1963. Between late-1962 and roughly the release of Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, D.A. "Dougie" Millings and his son Gordon made numerous suits for the Beatles for stage, screen, photo, and personal use. One such item was this jacket, part of a series of "Chesterfield" suits that were made in various colors for the band following the famous "collarless" design worn up to that point. In the process, they changed men's fashion and the physical appearance of Rock and Roll as we know it. This particular light grey mohair and worsted wool jacket with black velvet top collar and orange diamond acetate lining was custom tailored for George Harrison in 1963. Gordon Millings notes: "This design they wore not only at stage appearances and the 'Royal Command Performance,' but had made for their own street wear." He adds: "The black velvet trim on the pockets and the narrow collar are very significant of that year, and the four-button front fastening was very popular. It is also very unique in the fact of the sleeve detail - a black velvet strap sewn into the bottom of the front with a pearl button applied." The jacket is in Excellent condition with virtually no wear, is signed by Gordon Millings on the lining of the inside pocket, and has outer pockets that are sewn shut - indicating that it was primarily stage worn as opposed to personal use. Included with it are two handwritten letters of authenticity providing a detailed history of the garment by Gordon, three color snapshots of him inspecting the coat and signing the inside pocket, and the paper patterns used to make the garment. A fabulous item.

Heritage Auctions provides as much information as possible but strongly encourages in-person inspection. Condition statements are offered as general guidance only, not as complete representations of fact, and do not constitute a warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted but may be visible in the photos, which are considered part of the condition report. Lots estimated at $1,000 or less are not de-framed for inspection, and we may be unable to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and is not liable for damage to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or artwork that has shifted in the frame. All lots are sold "AS IS" under our Terms & Conditions of Auction.