A fez worn by the legendary comedian Tommy Cooper in the 1950s is expected to make up to £1,500 when it appears at Hansons Auctioneers’ memorabilia auction on September 17.
It was given to jazz musician Stanley Cooper by the famous comedian with whom he shared both a concert billing – and surname.
Stanley’s daughter, Susan Conway, who lives in Colchester, said: “I wouldn’t be surprised if, on discovering they shared the same name, Tommy Cooper gave the fez to my dad. My father certainly said Cooper was great guy with a generous nature.”
At the time London-born Stanley Cooper was on national service at RAF Compton Bassett in Wiltshire and, as a member of the dance band Fighter Command, called on to entertain the troops around the UK.
It was at one of these concerts he met his namesake.
Within a few years of the variety show, at which Cooper topped the bill, the 6ft 4in comedian would go on to enjoy huge nationwide success.
His television shows were watched by millions who loved his comic timing, failed magic tricks and catchphrase “just like that”.
The bright red felt fez, with a black tassel, has its original label Lamrani Frères, 59 Bab, Moulay Idriss (a town in Fès-Meknès, in northern Morocco) printed on its inner rim.
It was during WWII that a fez became Cooper’s emblem.
Legend has it he was performing for soldiers in Cairo, when he reached out and borrowed the hat from a passing waiter.
It added a visual fun element to his comical expressions and lumbering 6ft 4in frame and he never performed without one. The prop is now regarded as an icon of 20th-century comedy.
Sadly, his career ended tragically. By the end of the 1970s he was smoking and drinking heavily. On April 15, 1984 he died at the age of 63 in front of millions on live TV after suffering a heart attack.
Hansons Auctioneers’ music memorabilia expert Claire Howell said: “The fact that his fezzes command significant prices more than 40 years after his death underlines his impact and the affection still felt for him today.”
After completing his national service Stanley Cooper joined the City as a commodities broker, flying both Spitfires and Tiger Moths in his spare time.
His love of jazz continued throughout his life and he played in dance bands in his adopted county of Essex, where he lived in Wivenhoe, until the age of 91.
Susan continued: “My dad loved the humour of Tommy Cooper all his life. I hope this wonderful keepsake from one of the legends of 20th-century comedy will find a new home with people who appreciate it as much as we have.”
Auction Details
Auction: Derby Music, Vinyl & Film Memorabilia Auction
Auction date: 17th September 2025 | 10am
Location: Hansons Derbyshire Saleroom
Auction contact: [email protected]
Catalogue/bidding: www.hansonslive.co.uk | www.the-saleroom.com
