Classic Vintage Bowler Hat (“Coke”) by Lock & Co. of London | 1950-1970 Hard Felt Hat with Satin Lining and Monogram

For the traditionalist … a classic bowler hat (“coke”) likely dating from 1950-1970, by Lock & Co. Hatters of London, the world’s oldest hat shop. Finely crafted in firm black felt with grosgrain ribbon band and satin-lined interior, it bears the gold-stamped Lock insignia and a bespoke monogram for its original owner. 

Cleaned with a hat brush and thoroughly wearable, our bowler shows light wear at the front brim from years of being held in that spot when tipped or removed in polite company. It measures 22–22¼ inches inside circumference, equivalent to a US size 7-7 1/8. Please note that vintage hats may fit a touch snugger than modern equivalents.

Lock & Co. have been trading from St. James’s Street in London since 1759, though their history stretches back to 1676.  The firm’s clientele includes luminaries ranging from Lord Nelson to Winston Churchill to Charlie Chaplin, and today the company holds a royal warrant as hatmaker to King Charles III.  

In 1849, Lock & Co. were commissioned by Edward Coke of Holkham Hall in Norfolk to create a hard, close-fitting hat for his gamekeepers, a design that became known as the “coke” and later as the bowler.  By 1900, the bowler had become the defining hat of London businessmen, while also remaining standard attire for equestrians and country gentlemen.  

Dimensions: 11-1/2” x 8-7/8” x 5”
Weight: 6.9 oz.

Condition notes: Overall in excellent condition, showing light wear consistent with age and use. Crown and brim retain firm structure with no dents or tears.  Slight flattening and surface wear at the front brim from regular handling, including underside. Grosgrain trim around the brim remains tight with no fraying or loose threads. Ribbon around the crown is secure, with only slight fraying visible on the bow at the side.  Satin lining is intact with no fraying, displaying minor staining appropriate to age. Interior leather sweatband is fully secure with no loose stitching. Gold-stamped maker’s mark on sweatband reads LOCK & CO, HATTERS - ST. JAMES STREET LONDON. Custom embroidered monogram below the crown reads DGWB. Satin lining also bears the printed Lock & Co. branding: Lock & Co Hatters, St. James Street, London, Established 1759, Registered Trademark.  Hat has been gently brushed, preserving original finish and presentation. Other items in photos not included.

All items are hand-wrapped and packed with care for secure delivery.  Note: due to size, this item will not be gift-boxed.  We offer flat rate shipping via USPS Ground Advantage for $10, or USPS Priority Mail for $15. Orders over $100 ship free via USPS Priority Mail — any shipping charges for orders over $100 will be refunded after checkout. We pack with safety and care using recycled and recyclable materials whenever possible.

Sorry, no returns or cancellations.  Please view all photos for more detail and feel free to contact the shop with any questions prior to purchase.