Iconic Instruments from Music History Head to Auction
A collection of instruments once wielded by some of the 20th and 21st centuries’ most influential musicians is set to go under the hammer next month, offering a rare glimpse into the creative tools behind enduring anthems. The auction, organized by Christie’s, features guitars played by Kurt Cobain, John Lennon, and Prince, alongside Ringo Starr’s original Beatles drum kit and Elton John’s Steinway piano.
At the heart of the sale is a 1966 Fender Mustang guitar famously played by Kurt Cobain during performances of Nirvana’s breakthrough hit, “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” Experts estimate the instrument could fetch up to $5 million, recognizing its cultural significance as a symbol of the grunge movement. As Amelia Walker, London-based head of private and iconic collections at Christie’s, explained, “It’s a talismanic guitar for people of my generation… who lived through grunge. ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’ was the anthem of that generation. That video is so iconic.”
The collection, amassed by the late Jim Irsay, former owner of the Indianapolis Colts NFL team, extends far beyond grunge. It represents a decades-long pursuit of instruments with demonstrable links to pivotal moments in music history. Walker described the breadth of the Beatles-related items as “the most important assembled Beatles collection for somebody who wasn’t a member of the band,” highlighting the inclusion of five guitars played by John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison, as well as John Lennon’s piano – the very instrument on which he composed songs for the groundbreaking Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album.
Beyond the Beatles and Nirvana, the auction will feature instruments associated with a diverse range of musical giants. Guitars previously owned by Pink Floyd’s David Gilmour, The Grateful Dead’s Jerry Garcia, and Eric Clapton are all slated for sale. The collection also includes items linked to John Coltrane and Johnny Cash, demonstrating Irsay’s broad appreciation for musical innovation across genres.
The auction isn’t limited to guitars and pianos. Ringo Starr’s first Ludwig drum kit, the very one that captivated an audience of 73 million viewers when The Beatles made their American television debut on , on The Ed Sullivan Show, is expected to sell for around $2 million. The drum skin itself, a visual marker of that historic moment, is also included in the sale.
The sale reflects a growing market for musical memorabilia, a trend Christie’s is actively capitalizing on. The auction house is betting on the enduring appeal of these objects, not just as instruments, but as tangible connections to the artists and songs that have shaped popular culture. The instruments represent more than just wood and strings; they are physical embodiments of creativity, innovation, and cultural impact.
The Jim Irsay Collection will be auctioned in New York next month, offering collectors and fans alike a unique opportunity to own a piece of music history. The auction promises to be a significant event in the world of music memorabilia, potentially setting new benchmarks for the value of iconic instruments.
