Signed Peter Sellers Tiberio Restaurant Card

Item Description

Entertainment/film interest - A signed Peter Sellers TIBERIO restaurant card. An unconventional autograph with a story.

Set to go under the hammer in our upcoming Antiques & Interiors sale on Wednesday, 1st April at 10am, is a signed TIBERIO restaurant card by Peter Sellers. It offers far more than a simple signature; it tells a story. This highly unusual piece is sure to capture the attention of film enthusiasts and autograph collectors alike. 

Accompanied by a wonderfully cheeky story set in 1970s Mayfair, the piece captures Sellers at his comedic best - responding to a bold Champagne gesture with a handwritten note in French, signed as his character Robert Danvers from his hit film 'There's A Girl In My Soup', and featuring a hilariously memorable mistranslation.

With its blend of cinematic history, personality, and provenance, this lot is a true conversation piece and a standout addition for any collector seeking something both rare and entertaining.

The Restaurant

In the heart of Mayfair during the "Swinging London" era, the Tiberio was one of the capital's most glamorous Italian dining rooms, embodying the cosmopolitan energy of the 1960s and 70s. Opened by restaurateurs Mario Cassandro and Franco Lagattolla, it quickly became a magnet for high society, attracting a glittering clientele that ranged from Hollywood stars to British royalty. Figures such as Frank Sinatra, Peter Sellers, and John Wayne were known to dine there, while even Princess Margaret reportedly counted it among her favourite haunts. Renowned for its lively atmosphere and stylish take on Italian dining, Tiberio left a lasting mark on the city before fading from prominence in the late 1970s.

The Story

The recipient of the autograph, Simon, was an avid fan of stars of the big screen who often sought out celebrities and, using his personal charisma and ‘gift of the gab’ managed to work his way into their inner circles, through a combination of confidence and a white lie or two.

When Simon found out that a particular restaurant, the Tiberio in Mayfair, London, was a popular haunt for stars such as Princess Margaret, Peter Sellers, Laurence Harvey and Frank Sinatra, he and his wife frequented the restaurant themselves in the hope of spotting and interacting with such celebrities. (This was in the early 1970s). 

On one such occasion, to their delight, Peter Sellers turned up with his wife. After a discussion with the Maître d’, who warned Simon off disturbing the actor, he instead sent an expensive bottle of Champagne to Peter Sellers' table along with a handwritten note detailing that it was a gift to commemorate the time they worked together on a film. The actor was probably not fooled and replied with a handwritten note of his own, but wrote it all in French, with one word in particular standing out:

"Dear Simon, à votre service et "a penis". Amitié, Lumière, Paix et puis je vous remercie beaucoup pour le Champagne, Robert Danvers."

Fortunately, his wife could translate the note: 

"Dear Simon. At your service and “a penis.” Friendship, Light, Peace and may I thank you very much for the Champagne, Robert Danvers". 

He had cheekily signed it as the character he played in a film he made with Goldie Hawn in 1970, 'There's a Girl in my Soup.’ There is a scene in the film, when, after Robert's whirlwind marriage to Marion (Goldie Hawn), they travel to the south of France for their honeymoon. On arrival at the hotel, the French waiter turns to the couple and tries to convey his good wishes in English:

French waiter: "Monsieur, Madame. And we all 'ope you'll have a penis all your life!" 

The waiter leaves. Marion gives Robert a puzzled look. The penny finally drops, and when he comes to the realisation of what the waiter is trying to say, Robert turns to Marion and says with relief, "They hope that you will have 'happiness' all of your life."

Sell Your Entertainment Memorabilia With RWB Auctions

If you have film and entertainment memorabilia tucked away at home, whether it's signed photographs, vintage posters, or rare collectables, now is the perfect time to let those items shine again. Our monthly sales attract enthusiastic collectors and buyers who truly appreciate the history and nostalgia behind each piece. Autographs and memorabilia can achieve excellent results, especially when they are well-presented and come with a known background. Items with a story or clear provenance are particularly appealing, adding depth and authenticity that today's buyers are actively seeking.

We offer free, no-obligation valuations every Monday and Tuesday, giving you the opportunity to discover the true value of your items in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Our experienced specialists are always on hand to guide you through the process, from initial appraisal to sale, ensuring everything is straightforward and transparent. With a friendly and knowledgeable team and a proven track record of achieving strong prices for our vendors, you can feel confident that your treasured memorabilia is in expert hands.