Brian Epstein handed George Martin a one-of-a-kind acetate record in a final, urgent bid to secure a deal for the band. This specific disc (78 RPM), which contains “Hello Little Girl” on one side and “Till There Was You” on the reverse, bears the personal handwriting of Epstein himself. It was produced within the Personal Recording Department of London’s Oxford Street HMV store, utilizing the tapes from the group’s previous Decca audition before being shown to Martin at EMI.

While Martin was originally hesitant, this recording ultimately provided the professional opening the Beatles desperately needed. Renowned historian Mark Lewisohn highlights its significance in his book Tune In, noting that Epstein’s own script on the labels makes it one of the most valuable and sought-after pieces of memorabilia in existence.

Furthermore, Ian Shirley, editor of the Rare Record Price Guide, compares its importance to the legendary Quarrymen acetate, describing it as a “Holy Grail” piece that effectively launched the band’s journey toward global fame.

The disc lay forgotten in the home of Les Maguire – the keyboardist in fellow Liverpool act, Gerry and the Pacemakers. Maguire was given the disc by Epstein in 1963, after it had been returned to him by Martin.

The record was sold at the Warrington auction, having been locked away in Maguire’s loft – where it was kept wrapped in paper for more than 50 years.

The Beatles record found in a loft sold for £77,500 at auction in 2016.

To commemorate its legacy, the record was showcased at The Beatles Story Museum in Liverpool on February 13, 2025.