Fans of Peaky Blinders, get ready! A unique ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunity is now a reality for those who’ve always dreamed of owning a piece of television history, while supporting a vital cause.
An exclusive online auction of original costumes worn in the ‘global phenomenon’ BBC series went live on Tuesday 22 April and will run for four weeks, culminating on Tuesday 20 May. All proceeds from the auction will go to The Christie Charity, which supports cancer patients and pioneering research at one of Europe’s leading cancer centres, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust in Manchester.
Filmed in atmospheric locations across Greater Manchester, Cheshire and Lancashire – including Castlefield, The Northern Quarter, Victoria Baths and Salford Lads Club, as well as Arley Hall, Cheshire and Lee Quarry, Bacup – the final season of Peaky Blinders left an indelible mark, and now fans have a chance to claim a tangible piece of that legacy.
The auction, hosted by Omega Auctions, showcases an exceptional collection of wardrobe pieces worn by cast members in the final season. Among the highlights are several impeccably tailored three-piece suits worn by the main character, Tommy Shelby. One particularly notable suit was featured in the final scenes of the series six finale. Inside a pocket, there’s a handwritten note on the script reading, ‘Takes off ring.’
Another standout item is a uniquely tailored coat adorned with abstract stitched patterns, worn on screen by Polly Gray in episode four of series three, plus a handmade fur felt hat worn by Oswald Mosley.
Additional costume treasures range from lace flapper dresses, velvet dresses, embroidered scarves, and ladies’ shoes to flat caps, jackets, ties, waistcoats, leather riding shin guards, and many other iconic Peaky Blinders costume accessories – which are all be available to bid on.
The distinctive style of Peaky Blinders has made a lasting impression on fashion and pop culture. The show’s striking look was crafted by original costume designer Stephanie Collie, who hailed from Warrington, and played a key role in defining the TV show’s trademark look. Following her, award-winning Glasgow-based designer Alison McCosh continued to evolve the visual style through its later series. Their work not only shaped the Peaky Blinders style, but also sparked a fashion revival that extended from the high street to designer collections. Even Peaky Blinders super-fan, David Beckham launched a menswear line inspired by the show’s timeless aesthetic!
Dan Muscatelli-Hampson, auction manager at Omega Auctions Ltd commented on the items going under the hammer: “These stunning pieces are genuine cultural artefacts – the craftsmanship, history, and star power behind them is exceptional. We’re honoured to host the auction and support The Christie Charity in the process.”
From unique memorabilia to collectors’ items, the auction’s rare lots come at a fitting moment, ahead of the hotly anticipated Peaky Blinders feature film, written by the show’s creator and screenwriter Steven Knight and due for release this autumn. Its star, Cillian Murphy has previously shown his support for The Christie Charity, having donated the signature coat he wore in series three, and a hat from series five, to the Charity’s fundraising ball in 2019. This current auction will build on that generous gesture and promises to raise significant funds supporting the life-changing and life-saving work of The Christie hospital.
Marie Toller, head of philanthropy at The Christie Charity, said: “We are incredibly grateful to the team behind Peaky Blinders for this amazing gesture. Not only is this a ‘dream come true’ opportunity for the millions of fans to own a piece of television history, it’s also a unique opportunity to make a difference to cancer patients by supporting the vital work of The Christie.”
To tie in with the final day of the auction, on Tuesday 20 May, a themed event will take place at the Peaky Blinders bar on Peter Street in Manchester city centre, giving fans the chance to view a selection of costumes up close and join in the bidding action. There will be reception drinks on arrival and a pay bar. Guests are encouraged to come dressed in true Shelby style, with flat caps, sharp suits, and flapper dresses welcome.
Tickets are free and can be obtained here: https://www.christie.nhs.uk/the-christie-charity/get-involved/fundraise/events/events-calendar/peaky-blinders-charity-auction-event
Information about the Peaky Blinders auction, and how to bid, can be found on the Omega Auctions website: www.omegaauctions.co.uk
