Lennon Stamps Exceed Selling Expectations

Stamps designed by late star John Lennon to highlight the plight of striking British postal workers in 1971 have sold for hundreds of dollars (pounds) more than initially expected.

The stamps, depicting a clenched fist, were only expected to fetch around $1,280 (GBP800) at the London auction - but fans of the IMAGINE star splashed out $2,000 (GBP1,260) on them.

But other items of Lennon memorabilia attracted even higher bids - a signed copy of the Beatles album Revolver was the most successful item at the auction, fetching $34,560 (GBP21,600). A 1960s table owned by Lennon also reached $3,840 (GBP2,400).

A collection of photographs depicting The Beatles in Australia was expected to sell for as much as $24,000 (GBP15,000) but remained unsold at the SOTHEBY's sale.

Dozens of other lots featuring the famous Liverpool band, including tickets and signed programmes, made thousands more dollars (pounds).

STEPHEN MAYCOCK, rock and pop memorabilia specialist, says, "Overall, the Beatles collection did well but people are still buying collectively. Autographs are guaranteed to sell. Although, it's surprising that they still make money as they are not a scarce commodity.

"Most were signed in 1963 but the band only signed a certain number so one day they will dry up, I suppose. They will all be in private collections but I suspect this will not be for a long time."