The iconic collection of legendary Irish musician and guitarist Rory Gallagher is set to go up for auction at Bonhams in London on October 17. The sale, held at New Bond Street, will feature nearly 150 items, including guitars, amplifiers, and other memorabilia from Gallagher’s storied career, all offered directly by his family.
The highlight of the auction is Gallagher’s famed 1961 Fender Stratocaster, one of the most recognizable guitars in rock history. Purchased in 1963 for £100 from Crowley’s Music Store in Cork, Ireland, the Stratocaster is believed to be the first of its kind to reach the country.
It quickly became synonymous with Gallagher, its distinctive wear and finish a testament to the musician’s electrifying performances and influence. The instrument is expected to fetch between £700,000 and £1,000,000 ($920,000 and $1,300,000) at auction.
Gallagher’s Stratocaster has long been celebrated, appearing on numerous magazine covers and displayed in landmark exhibitions. It has also been played by famed musicians such as Johnny Marr and Joe Bonamassa, further cementing its status in music history. Fender began producing replica models of the guitar in 2004 as part of its artist signature series.
Claire Tole-Moir, Head of Bonhams’ Popular Culture department, emphasized the guitar’s significance: “Rory Gallagher’s 1961 Fender Stratocaster is one of the world’s most recognisable guitars. It was with him from the beginning of his career to the end, and it played a vital role in carving out his legacy as one of the greatest guitarists of all time.”
Gallagher’s brother and former manager, Dónal Gallagher, reflected on the decision to auction the collection. “After nearly thirty years since my brother Rory’s passing, I now believe it’s time for other people to cherish Rory’s ‘orphaned’ 1961 Fender Stratocaster and the rest of his incredible instrument collection. Since 1995, I have always felt that there was a mission to be fulfilled to cement Rory’s legacy and widen the knowledge of his music.”
Musicians continue to draw inspiration from Gallagher, including Queen’s guitarist Brian May, who once praised Gallagher’s unparalleled ability to bring magic to his performances. May remarked that Gallagher’s influence was a major factor in his own career.
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