Stunning original purple satin jacket worn by the Beatles entourage on their triumphal 1965 American tour is today worth much more than its weight in gold. Indeed, as with anything else touched by Fab Four history, whether worn, played, signed, regurgitated or sat on, the jacket carries considerable influence, as it would set the trend in roadie wear, though its simplicity is a stark contrast from the studded, star-spangled, logo and ad-covered jackets seen on roadies and other assorted hangers-on at rock concerts over the last three decades. No lips, tongues or Coca-Cola patches on this beauty. The only departure from the deep purple (good name for a rock band, isn't it?) motif are the words "Beatles 1965 American Tour" stitched meticulously in white satin lettering on the back. Neck, cuffs and waistband are ribbed. Best of all, the jacket is in great condition, with no pilling or tears anywhere and only traces of minor water staining and minimal fading. No size or other labels in the neck, but it appears to be approximately a size 40, medium to large. Not surprisingly, a jacket exactly like this is listed among the top ten memorabilia items on display at the Hard Rock Cafe. Beatles collectors with a faint hope of finding one for their own display cases might well describe it as a priceless artifact from what was at the time called the "North American Tour," which coincided with the group's second Ed Sullivan Show appearance on August 15 and kicked off that day at Shea Stadium, running through August 31 with other concert dates in Toronto, Atlanta, Houston, Chicago, Minneapolis, Portland, San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. The jacket was given new as a gift to a disc jockey in 1965. It will make a stunning addition to your collection. LOA.