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 On Tuesday, September 4, 1962, the Beatles recorded their first track as EMI artists at Abbey Road Studios. It was a song entitled "How Do You Do It", written by Mitch Murray and forced on them by their new producer, George Martin, who believed it would be a hit single. It was - a year later, for Gerry and the Pacemakers. Instead, their other recording effort that day became the Beatles' first single. Written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, it was called "Love Me Do". Seven and a half years later, on January 4, 1970, they recorded their last song together as a group, the entirely appropriate "Let It Be". During those scant few years, the Beatles became the dominant cultural influence of the last half of the 20th century.
Beatlemania left an avalanche of collectibles in its wake.  Photos that were signed by all four members can range in value from $2000 - $5000, depending on the item signed. Original sealed albums, particularly those in mono (monaural), are highly desirable. For example, a sealed, mono copy of "Something New" from 1964 is worth $1000 - $1200. A stereo, sealed version of "Rubber Soul" from 1965 will sell for $900 - $1000. An unused concert ticket can sell for $200 - $300.
The Beatles were ideal for merchandising, and there's some odd stuff out there. A portable Beatles record player from 1964 in mint condition is worth $8100 - $9500. That same year, Milton Bradley released a board game called "The Beatles Flip Your Wig Game". In mint condition, it now sells for $300 - $400. In 1968, Goebel brought out a limited edition set of porcelain figures from "Yellow Submarine" of Lennon and McCartney. Only 100 sets were made and these will sell for $8600 - $10,000.
 Even newer items, such as the late George Harrison's 1980 autobiography, "I Me Mine", can be pricey. 2000 copies with brown leather covers, signed and numbered, were released at the time, and are now worth $2300 - $3000 apiece.
Collectibles featuring the Beatles have continuously risen in value and will likely continue to do so for years to come. The memories, however, are priceless.
(Top photo courtesy of The Beatles official web site.)
NOTICE: WCN is not affiliated with The Beatles.
This information is presented solely for the interest
of Beatles collectors.
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