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Beatles Anti-Segregation Contract Sells For $23,000

STEVE INSKEEP, Host:

There was an open playing field for Beatles memorabilia yesterday, and one of the items auctioned off serves as a reminder that we do indeed live in a different world than in the past.

DAVID GREENE, Host:

It's a contract for a Beatles performance. Our last word in business is the wording of that contract. It was signed by the band manager before a 1965 concert in San Francisco.

INSKEEP: It states the usual demands, like making sure that there is electricity and water for the Fab Four's trailer. The contract also stipulates that the Beatles will not play in front of a segregated audience.

GREENE: The band nearly cancelled a performance in Florida until officials agreed to integrate the event. The documents for the San Francisco concert were expected to fetch $5,000 or so.

INSKEEP: But the contract sold yesterday to an undisclosed bidder for $23,000. That's the business news on MORNING EDITION from NPR News. I'm Steve Inskeep.

GREENE: And I'm David Greene. Transcript provided by NPR, Copyright NPR.