Vintage Lincoln Bennett Top Hat - Signed by Football Legend Gordon Banks - Rare

This Rare Vintage Lincoln Bennett Grey Top Hat is a remarkable piece of both sports memorabilia and vintage fashion. Personalized and signed by legendary footballer Gordon Banks, one of football’s greatest goalkeepers, this top hat holds significant historical and collectible value. Crafted by the prestigious Lincoln Bennett & Co., a British hatmaker known for creating bespoke accessories for royalty and public figures, this hat represents elegance, craftsmanship, and a direct connection to an iconic athlete.

Gordon Banks, celebrated for his role in England's 1966 FIFA World Cup victory and honored with an OBE in 1970, was known for attending formal events throughout his career. This hat, complete with Banks' signature and tailor-punched initials "GB" inside the leather band, offers a glimpse into the personal life of the football legend, possibly worn during significant occasions such as his OBE investiture at Buckingham Palace.

Signature and Personalization:

• Authentic signature of Gordon Banks on the interior lining.
• Tailor-punched initials "GB" inside the leather band, confirming this top hat was custom-made for Banks.

Brand:

• Lincoln Bennett & Co.: A renowned British hatmaker, known for creating bespoke accessories for elite clients.

Material:

• High-quality grey felt with black band trim.
• Leather interior band, personalized with "GB".
• Interior lining shows minor foxing due to age, common in vintage fabrics.

Key Features:

• Unique Personalization: Signature and tailor-punched initials "GB" belonging to Gordon Banks.
• Provenance: Strong historical ties, possibly worn during formal events such as the 1966 World Cup victory celebrations and his OBE investiture in 1970.
• Craftsmanship: Made by Lincoln Bennett & Co., a trusted name in British bespoke hatmaking.

Condition:
This top hat is in good overall vintage condition. The exterior felt is smooth and well-preserved, with minor signs of wear around the edges. The interior leather band, personalized with Banks' initials, is intact. The signature is clear and well-preserved, making this a rare collectible. There is minor foxing on the inner fabric, typical of its age, which does not affect the structural integrity of the hat.

Circa:
1930s-1950s