It was 30 years ago today that John Lennon signed his final autograph for a fan on the steps outside the Dakota Building. Hours later he was dead, murdered by that very same fan Mark Chapman, but although he was gone before his time Lennon's legacy has continued to grow year after year.
His life as a songwriter, musician, activist and advocate for world peace still echoes today and as generations of music fans gather to remember him, there are further generations yet to discover his music.
Every anniversary and album re-issue will see Lennon's standing in popular culture rise further, which could be excellent news for collectors of his memorabilia. Market analysis has shown that Lennon's autograph has risen in value by 756.1% over the past 10 years (according to the industry's PFC40 Autographs Index), jumping from £695 to £5,950.
Our video of the week takes a look at Lennon's anti-war activism, and the place he reserved for himself in cultural history.
- Click here to view our musical memorabilia for sale
- Learn how you can get pleasure and profit from Johnny Cash collectibles
- Read all the latest Memorabilia and Autographs news
Join our readers in over 200 countries around the world - sign up for your free weekly Collectibles Newsletter today
