Roger Moore’s Passport Up for Auction at Bonhams

Roger Moore, the British actor who epitomized sophistication and charm as James Bond, left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. Born on October 14, 1927, in London, Moore’s journey from a modest upbringing to becoming one of the most iconic actors in the history of the James Bond franchise is a testament to his talent and charisma. Roger Moore Passport Auction

The Quintessential Gentleman Spy

Moore’s tenure as James Bond spanned seven films, from “Live and Let Die” in 1973 to “A View to a Kill” in 1985. He brought a unique flair to the character, distinguishing himself from his predecessors by infusing Bond with a suave, tongue-in-cheek humor. His portrayal of the iconic spy was characterized by a calm demeanor, a preference for tailored suits, and a penchant for witty one-liners, which endeared him to fans worldwide.

Simon Templar

Beyond Bond, Roger Moore enjoyed a successful career in both television and film. His role as Simon Templar in the television series “The Saint” catapulted him to fame in the 1960s and showcased his versatility as an actor. His suave persona and roguish charm made Templar a beloved character, further cementing Moore’s status as a leading man. Roger Moore Passport Auction

Humanitarian

Moore’s commitment to humanitarian causes was equally admirable. He served as a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF for nearly three decades, tirelessly advocating for children’s rights and humanitarian aid. His dedication to this cause demonstrated his character beyond the silver screen, and he was awarded the title of Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in recognition of his philanthropic efforts.

In his personal life, Roger Moore was known for his humility and affability, traits that endeared him to colleagues and fans alike. He embraced his status as a cultural icon with grace and a good sense of humor, often poking fun at his own image as James Bond. Roger Moore Passport Auction

Roger Moore’s passing

2017 marked the end of an era in cinema. His portrayal of James Bond, his contributions to television, and his unwavering commitment to humanitarian work will forever be remembered. He was more than just an actor; he was a symbol of elegance, charm, and philanthropy. Roger Moore, the quintessential gentleman spy, will forever hold a special place in the hearts of moviegoers around the world, leaving behind a legacy that transcends the silver screen.

The Passport

Roger Moore Passport, 1991
Sir Roger Moore’s extensively used British passport. 1991-2001
With black and white passport photograph of Sir Roger Moore, signed in black ink by Roger, containing 26 pages of numerous stamps for international travel for work and charitable causes throughout the 1990s, including New York, Chicago, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Bern, Bangkok, Vancouver, Ghana, Chile, and South Africa, among others, 8.8cm x 12.5cm (3 1/2in x 5in). Estimate: £2,000 – £3,000

 

Celebrity passports and their prices, incl the result of this passport

 

Newsletter

incl. FREE guideline!

FAQ Passport History pasaporte passeport паспорт 护照 パスポート جواز سفر पासपोर्ट

1. What are the earliest known examples of passports, and how have they evolved?

The word "passport" came up only in the mid 15th Century. Before that, such documents were safe conducts, recommendations or protection letters. On a practical aspect, the earliest passport I have seen was from the mid 16th Century. Read more...

2. Are there any notable historical figures or personalities whose passports are highly sought after by collectors?

Every collector is doing well to define his collection focus, and yes, there are collectors looking for Celebrity passports and travel documents of historical figures like Winston Churchill, Brothers Grimm, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. Read more...

3. How did passport designs and security features change throughout different periods in history, and what impact did these changes have on forgery prevention?

"Passports" before the 18th Century had a pure functional character. Security features were, in the best case, a watermark and a wax seal. Forgery, back then, was not an issue like it is nowadays. Only from the 1980s on, security features became a thing. A state-of-the-art passport nowadays has dozens of security features - visible and invisible. Some are known only by the security document printer itself. Read more...

4. What are some of the rarest and most valuable historical passports that have ever been sold or auctioned?

Lou Gehrig, Victor Tsoi, Marilyn Monroe, James Joyce, and Albert Einstein when it comes to the most expensive ones. Read more...

5. How do diplomatic passports differ from regular passports, and what makes them significant to collectors?

Such documents were often held by officials in high ranks, like ambassadors, consuls or special envoys. Furthermore, these travel documents are often frequently traveled. Hence, they hold a tapestry of stamps or visas. Partly from unusual places.

6. Can you provide insights into the stories behind specific historical passports that offer unique insights into past travel and migration trends?

A passport tells the story of its bearer and these stories can be everything - surprising, sad, vivid. Isabella Bird and her travels (1831-1904) or Mary Kingsley, a fearless Lady explorer.

7. What role did passports play during significant historical events, such as wartime travel restrictions or international treaties?

During war, a passport could have been a matter of life or death. Especially, when we are looking into WWII and the Holocaust. And yes, during that time, passports and similar documents were often forged to escape and save lives. Example...

8. How has the emergence of digital passports and biometric identification impacted the world of passport collecting?

Current modern passports having now often a sparkling, flashy design. This has mainly two reasons. 1. Improved security and 2. Displaying a countries' heritage, icons, and important figures or achievements. I can fully understand that those modern documents are wanted, especially by younger collectors.

9. Are there any specialized collections of passports, such as those from a specific country, era, or distinguished individuals?

Yes, the University of Western Sidney Library has e.g. a passport collection of the former prime minister Hon Edward Gough Whitlam and his wife Margaret. They are all diplomatic passports and I had the pleasure to apprise them. I hold e.g. a collection of almost all types of the German Empire passports (only 2 types are still missing). Also, my East German passport collection is quite extensive with pretty rare passport types.

10. Where can passport collectors find reliable resources and reputable sellers to expand their collection and learn more about passport history?

A good start is eBay, Delcampe, flea markets, garage or estate sales. The more significant travel documents you probably find at the classic auction houses. Sometimes I also offer documents from my archive/collection. See offers... As you are already here, you surely found a great source on the topic 😉

Other great sources are: Scottish Passports, The Nansen passport, The secret lives of diplomatic couriers

11. Is vintage passport collecting legal? What are the regulations and considerations collectors should know when acquiring historical passports?

First, it's important to stress that each country has its own laws when it comes to passports. Collecting old vintage passports for historical or educational reasons is safe and legal, or at least tolerated. More details on the legal aspects are here...

Does this article spark your curiosity about passport collecting and the history of passports? With this valuable information, you have a good basis to start your own passport collection.

Question? Contact me...

Passport collection, passport renewal, emergency passport renewal, same day passport, passport application