New York, NY – Julien’s Auctions, renowned as the leading auction house for rock n’ roll memorabilia, hosted an unprecedented two-day auction event, “MUSIC ICONS,” on May 29th and 30th at The Hard Rock® in New York. This landmark event featured an extraordinary collection of music history from iconic figures such as John Lennon, Prince, Freddie Mercury, Michael Jackson, and Elvis Presley.
Record-Breaking Sale: John Lennon’s Framus Guitar
John Lennon’s historic Framus 12-string Hootenanny acoustic guitar, used during the 1965 “Help!” album, was sold for an astounding US$2,857,500 (HK$22,288,500) to a telephone bidder, setting a new world record for the most expensive Beatles guitar ever sold at auction. This guitar, presumed lost for over 50 years, played a pivotal role in The Beatles’ recording history.
David Goodman, CEO of Julien’s Auctions, expressed his excitement, stating, “We are absolutely thrilled and honored to have set a new world record with the sale of John Lennon’s lost hootenanny guitar. This guitar is not only a piece of music history but a symbol of John Lennon’s enduring legacy.”
Prince’s Iconic “Cloud 3” Electric Guitar
Another highlight was the sale of Prince’s legendary “Cloud 3” electric guitar, which fetched US$910,000 (HK$7,098,000), establishing a new world record for the most expensive Prince guitar ever sold at auction. This guitar, synonymous with Prince’s iconic 80s-90s tours, underscores the lasting impact of his musical genius.
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More Record-Breaking Sales
- Robbie Robertson’s 1965 Fender Telecaster guitar, used with Bob Dylan, sold for US$650,000 (HK$5,070,000), breaking the record for the most expensive Robbie Robertson guitar.
- Bono’s U2 signed 2005 Gretsch G6136i “Irish Falcon” sold for US$260,000 (HK$2,028,000).
- Steve Jones’ custom 1974 Gibson Les Paul electric guitar, verified as the original Sex Pistols axe, sold for US$390,000 (HK$3,042,000).
Other Notable Sales
- Adam Clayton’s Fender Rose Sparkle Precision bass guitar: US$260,000 (HK$2,028,000).
- Tina Turner’s “Wildest Dreams Tour” Versace outfit: US$38,100 (HK$297,180).
- Michael Jackson’s “Billy Jean” Black Sequin Jacket: US$114,300 (HK$891,540).
- Amy Winehouse’s Chanel leather bag: US$22,750 (HK$177,450).
Upcoming Auction: Hollywood Legends
Julien’s Auctions will continue to captivate collectors with its upcoming “HOLLYWOOD LEGENDS: DANGER, DISASTER & DISCO” auction on June 12-14, featuring a VIP reception and a plethora of iconic Hollywood artifacts.
At Julien’s, every auction is a chance to relive and own a piece of cultural history. Whether collaborating with artists, partnering with estates, or working with collectors, Julien’s Auctions brings culture to life through unforgettable artifacts. For more information, visit Julien’s Auctions.
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