Rory Gallagher’s iconic 1961 Fender Stratocaster, one of the most recognisable Stratocasters in rock history, will be the highlight of a major auction featuring 150 items of the late Irish guitarist and songwriter this October.
Renowned for his electrifying live performances and inspirational influence on fans and fellow musicians, Irish guitarist and songwriter Rory Gallagher (1948-1995) is celebrated as one of the most esteemed guitarists of all time. On 17th October, Bonhams will auction an extensive collection of Gallagher’s personal items in New Bond Street, London.
The Rory Gallagher Collection comprises nearly 150 items, including a remarkable selection of guitars, amps, and accessories from his illustrious career, all provided directly by the Gallagher family. The highlight of the collection is Gallagher’s iconic 1961 Fender Stratocaster, widely regarded as one of the most recognisable Stratocasters in rock history. The guitar is estimated to fetch between £700,000 and £1,000,000.
Gallagher purchased the Fender Stratocaster on credit for £100 from Crowley’s Music Store in Cork, Ireland, in 1963. It is rumored to be the first Stratocaster to reach Ireland. This guitar, with its distinctive worn finish, became synonymous with Gallagher, featuring in numerous exhibitions and magazine covers and played by guitarists such as Johnny Marr and Joe Bonamassa. Fender has even produced replica models of this guitar as part of their artist signature series since 2004.
“Rory Gallagher’s 1961 Fender Stratocaster is one of the world’s most recognisable guitars,” said Claire Tole-Moir, Head of Bonhams Popular Culture department. “It played an integral role in Rory Gallagher’s career from start to finish. Treasured by his brother and former manager, Dónal Gallagher, and the Gallagher family since Rory’s passing in 1995, Bonhams is honoured to auction this iconic Stratocaster and announce the landmark sale of Rory Gallagher’s extensive collection.”
Dónal Gallagher added, “After nearly 30 years since my brother Rory’s passing, I now believe it’s time for others to cherish Rory’s ‘orphaned’ 1961 Fender Stratocaster and the rest of his incredible instrument collection. Since 1995, I felt a mission to cement Rory’s legacy and broaden the knowledge of his music. Thus, in a difficult and sensitive decision, I have decided to release his instruments for sale so that these emblems of his legacy can be enjoyed by others.”
Highlighting the significance of Gallagher’s Stratocaster, Sir Brian May commented, “He was one of the very few who could make his guitar seem magical… I remember looking at this battered Stratocaster and thinking, ‘how does that come out of there?’” May also credited Gallagher as a major influence on his own musical career, stating, “One of the reasons I do what I do is because of Rory.”
This auction at Bonhams offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of rock history and to celebrate the enduring legacy of Rory Gallagher.
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Photos courtesy Bonhams