Eric Morecambe's trademark glasses fetch £20,000 at estate auction

A pair of spectacles belonging to comedian Eric Morecambe sold for £20,000 at auction. The items, which included personal effects and show business memorabilia, came from Morecambe’s Hertfordshire home following the death of his widow, Joan, in March 2024.

The glasses were sold alongside a barling briar pipe and two photographs of Morecambe. Other items included a telegram from the late Duke of Edinburgh, as well as letters from Margaret Thatcher, comedian Ronnie Barker, and Tommy Cooper. The auction, which featured over 700 lots, took place more than 40 years after Morecambe’s death in 1984.

Morecambe was also known for his pipe smoking, and a collection of pipes sold for £1,100. His OBE, awarded by Queen Elizabeth II in 1976, sold for £11,000, £8,000 above its top estimate. Additionally, Morecambe’s tuxedo and trousers, his desk, and a Breitling watch were also sold at the auction.

The glasses were made by Metzler and can be seen in a photograph of Morecambe and Wise. Furthermore, a private letter from the then Prince of Wales fetched £2,500, and a vintage Luton Town Admiral tracksuit top with "Eric" stitched on the back sold for £5,500.

Morecambe met his comedy partner Ernie Wise in 1940 at the age of 14, and despite being separated during the war, they eventually formed the enduring double act "Morecambe and Wise". They toured in theatre for years before moving into television, and by 1977, their Christmas Special drew 28 million viewers.

Charles Hanson of Hansons Auctioneers said: “We are absolutely thrilled with the phenomenal results achieved at this auction. Eric Morecambe’s legacy endures in the hearts of millions, and these prices reflect not only the quality and uniqueness of the items but also the deep and continued affection fans have for him. It’s been an incredible two days!” A costume worn by Morecambe on a BBC show was also sold during the auction.