Died: December 8, 1980

Since he was shot in New York, Lennon has earned vast sums of money. On his death, the former Beatle was worth £100m, but has since made double. Merchandise, merchandise and more merchandise have kept a steady supply of wealth in the Lennon pot, while Paul McCartney and Apple Records have a tight grip on most of the songwriter's musical back catalogue.

Who benefits: His former wife Yoko Ono is reported to have amassed a £300m fortune from his estate.