Johnny Marr Unveils Unique Auction Featuring The Smiths and Billie Eilish Guitars

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Johnny Marr, the former guitarist of The Smiths, has announced plans to auction several guitars he played with the band and during his collaborations with Billie Eilish, according to a report by the BBC. The auction, scheduled for July 12, 2026, includes instruments from his time with the 1980s alternative rock group and his work with the American singer, marking a rare public sale of his personal music equipment.

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What guitars are being auctioned?
The collection features a 1963 Gibson Les Paul Standard, which Marr used during The Smiths’ most influential period, and a Fender Telecaster that he played while touring with Billie Eilish in 2023. Heritage Auctions, the firm handling the sale, confirmed the guitars’ inclusion in the “Guitar Legends” event. The Les Paul, known for its rich tone, was reportedly modified by Marr to suit his playing style, while the Telecaster, a more streamlined model, was used in live performances and studio sessions.

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Why is this significant?
The auction represents a major moment for music collectors and fans of Marr’s work. The Smiths, active from 1982 to 1987, are considered one of the most influential alternative rock bands, and Marr’s guitar work on albums like The Queen Is Dead and Strangeways, Here We Came has been widely studied. His collaboration with Eilish, which began in 2021, has also drawn attention for blending his classic rock sensibilities with her modern pop aesthetic.

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What is the estimated value?
Heritage Auctions has not yet released official estimates, but similar instruments from The Smiths’ era have sold for six figures. A 1963 Gibson Les Paul in original condition recently fetched $350,000 at a private sale, according to Guitar World. Marr’s modified version, however, may command a higher price due to its historical and musical significance. The Fender Telecaster, while less rare, is expected to attract interest from collectors of contemporary guitar gear.

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How does this align with Marr’s recent activities?
Marr has remained active in music since The Smiths’ dissolution, contributing to projects with artists like The Maccabees and contributing to film scores. His work with Eilish, including co-writing and performing on her 2023 album Happier Than Ever, has expanded his reach to younger audiences. The auction follows a trend of musicians selling vintage instruments, such as Eric Clapton’s 1956 Fender Telecaster, which sold for $1.9 million in 2021.

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What are the proceeds intended to support?
A spokesperson for Marr’s team confirmed that a portion of the auction’s proceeds will be donated to the Teenage Cancer Trust, a charity he has supported since the 1990s. The organization funds cancer treatment and support services for young patients, according to its website. Marr’s connection to the cause dates back to his work with The Smiths’ manager, who was a patron of the trust.

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What is the broader context of guitar auctions?
Guitar auctions have become a significant market for music memorabilia, with high-profile sales often reflecting the cultural value of iconic instruments. In 2022, a 1954 Gibson ES-355 played by Jimi Hendrix sold for $2.8 million, while a 1969 Fender Precision Bass used by Paul McCartney fetched $1.2 million. Marr’s guitars, while not as historically rare as these, are notable for their association with two distinct eras of rock and pop music.

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What happens next?
The auction will take place at Heritage Auctions’ Los Angeles gallery, with bidding available online. Potential buyers include private collectors, music institutions, and fans. Marr’s team has not commented on whether he will attend the event, but previous auctions of his equipment have drawn media attention. The sale’s outcome could influence future opportunities for musicians to monetize their personal instruments, a practice that has grown in popularity over the past decade.