Rory Gallagher‘s Iconic Stratocaster to be Displayed at National Museum of Ireland
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The celebrated guitarist’s 1963 Fender Stratocaster, purchased for over €1 million, will be a centerpiece of the newly expanded “Changing Ireland Galleries” at the National Museum at Collins Barracks.
Last updated: 2025/10/15 09:10:55
The Guitar’s Journey
Rory Gallagher, a highly influential irish blues and rock guitarist, acquired his iconic Fender Stratocaster in 1963 from Crowley’s music store in Cork for £100 (RTÉ, October 17, 2024). this guitar became synonymous with his performances and sound throughout his career.
Over six decades later, in October 2024, the instrument was sold at a Bonhams auction in london for over €1 million (Bonhams Auction Catalog).Live Nation Gaiety Ltd.successfully bid on the guitar and generously donated it to the National Museum of Ireland (RTÉ, October 17, 2024).
“The Changing Ireland Galleries” Expansion
The guitar’s unveiling is part of the largest expansion of public galleries at the National museum at Collins Barracks in over two decades (National Museum of Ireland, October 14, 2025). The refurbishment of a previously untouched section of the barracks, vacant since the departure of the Defense Forces approximately 30 years ago, has created a new space for showcasing Irish history and culture.
The “Changing Ireland Galleries” feature over 250 objects drawn from the museum’s 20th and 21st-century collections.These objects,both extraordinary and everyday,offer a glimpse into the last 150 years of Irish life (National Museum