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This is a truly remarkable historical estate lot combining 1940s international diplomacy, vintage high-fashion, and wartime Broadway theater ephemera. This unique collection features three distinct items sourced directly out of the same estate collection:
1. The Antique Lock & Co. London Box (Circa 1947–1949)
An authentic, custom-shaped cardboard hat box from James Lock & Co. Ltd. Hatters of St. James's Street, London (the oldest hat shop in the world).
The Provenance: Features the original, intact customs declaration label addressed directly to George A. Garrett, care of the American Legation in Dublin, Ireland. Garrett was appointed by President Truman and was subsequently elevated to become the very first official U.S. Ambassador to Ireland
2. The Vintage Argentine Fur Felt Hat
Safely stored inside the box is a premium mid-century men’s fedora crafted by the elite Argentine manufacturer Sombreros WAY (Buenos Aires).
The Specifications: Model line is "The Brighton" featuring a beautiful interior silk lining stamped "Calidad Extra" (signifying premium, high-density fur felt fabrication). It features a hand-stamped gold-leaf monogram with the initials "H. D." and holds its original paper factory size tag: Size 7 ⅛ (European 57).
3. The 1941 Broadway Theater Ticket Stub
Tucked safely inside the hat’s interior brim is an authentic, perfectly preserved ticket stub from the legendary R.K.O. Palace Theatre in Times Square, New York City.The Date: Dated Friday Evening, June 13, 1941 (Mezzanine Level, Row G, Seat 10). It serves as an incredible wartime time capsule hidden away for over 80 years!
Condition Statement (Sold As-Is / As-Found)Please review all photos carefully as this lot reflects its genuine 80+ year age:
The Hat Body: The heavy fur felt crown and brim are structurally immaculate, clean, supple, and hold shape beautifully. The interior leather sweatband and silk lining are firmly intact with strong markings.
The Exterior Ribbon: The decorative black grosgrain ribbon around the outside base of the hat shows age-related wear. The fabric fibers have become brittle over time and have split in some sections (see photos). It has been left completely unaltered to preserve its historical integrity.
The Box: The cardboard shipping box shows structural wear, edge splitting, and natural aging/patina consistent with transatlantic travel from the 1940s.
This is a magnificent, museum-worthy conversation piece perfect for political memorabilia, Broadway ephemera, or rare vintage clothing collectors.
